The Complete Guide to Website Accessibility in 2025

Why Accessibility Matters Now

Web accessibility lawsuits increased 30% year-over-year, and the DOJ has made it clear that websites must be accessible under the ADA. Beyond legal compliance, accessible websites reach 15% more potential customers.

WCAG 2.2 Key Requirements

Perceivable

• All images have descriptive alt text
• Video content has captions and transcripts
• Color is not the only means of conveying information
• Text has sufficient contrast (4.5:1 minimum)

Operable

• All functionality is keyboard accessible
• Users have enough time to read and interact
• Content doesn't cause seizures
• Clear navigation and wayfinding

Understandable

• Text is readable and predictable
• Forms have clear labels and error messages
• Content appears and operates predictably

Robust

• Content works with assistive technologies
• Valid HTML structure
• ARIA attributes used correctly

Quick Audit Checklist

• [ ] Run automated scan (axe, WAVE, Lighthouse)
• [ ] Test with keyboard only (Tab, Enter, Escape)
• [ ] Test with screen reader (NVDA, VoiceOver)
• [ ] Check color contrast ratios
• [ ] Verify form accessibility
• [ ] Test at 200% zoom
• [ ] Check mobile accessibility

Business Benefits

1. Legal Protection: Reduce lawsuit risk
2. Larger Audience: 1 in 4 adults has a disability
3. Better SEO: Accessibility improvements align with SEO best practices
4. Improved UX: Accessible design benefits all users

Accessibility is not a one-time fix — it's an ongoing commitment that should be baked into every design and development decision.