Justice Department Sues Lyft Over Disability Access

The U.S. Department of Justice has sued Lyft in federal court, alleging that the ride-hailing company and its drivers discriminated against passengers with disabilities and seeking $53 million for riders who complained, plus a separate civil penalty.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that drivers refused rides to people traveling with service animals or using stowable wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The department also says some passengers were charged cancellation fees or other amounts after being denied service. The allegations have not been adjudicated.

The $53 million request is intended to compensate people with disabilities who complained to Lyft or the department, according to the Justice Department. The complaint also asks the court to impose a civil penalty, but does not specify its amount. The department alleges Lyft failed to make adequate changes to its policies and practices to prevent discrimination. It also says the company did not sufficiently train drivers and customer-service representatives on disability obligations.

Lyft said it disagrees with the allegations. The company said its policies...