Website Accessibility: Why It Matters and How to Achieve It
Website accessibility refers to how easily a website can be used by people with disabilities, including those who rely on assistive technologies like screen readers, keyboard navigation, screen magnification tools, or voice control. If your website isn’t accessible, a significant portion of your audience may be unable to use your site—and your business could face legal and reputational risks as a result.
Why Website Accessibility Is Crucial
In the U.S., about 1 in 4 adults—that’s over 61 million people—live with some type of disability (CDC). These individuals often rely on technology to navigate the web. But if a website is not compatible with tools like screen readers or keyboard-only navigation, it becomes difficult—or even impossible—for them to access important content or complete basic tasks like filling out a form or making a purchase.
An inaccessible website doesn’t just create a poor experience—it can send a message that your brand isn’t inclusive. Worse, it opens your business up to legal action under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Common Website Accessibility Issues
Most accessibility issues arise from simple oversights during the web development process. Common problems include:
-
Low contrast between text and background
-
Missing alternative text on images
-
Inaccessible forms without proper labeling
-
Vague links like “click here” without descriptive text
-
Lack of keyboard navigation support
These issues can be easily addressed with some extra attention to detail and adherence to accessibility standards like WCAG 2.1 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).
The Limits of Manual Fixes
While many accessibility improvements can be made manually, it’s not always enough—especially for modern websites that use plugins, ecommerce integrations, and dynamic content. Tools like Shopify, WooCommerce, or custom JavaScript widgets may not be fully accessible, and even skilled web developers can’t always control every part of a site’s functionality.
Still, website owners are legally responsible for ensuring accessibility. That’s why more businesses are turning to automated solutions to achieve ongoing compliance.
Advanced Website Accessibility with accessWidget
At Saltech Systems, we partner with accessiBe, an industry leader in web accessibility technology. Their flagship product, accessWidget, uses AI to make your website accessible and compliant—without needing a full website overhaul.
What Does accessWidget Do?
-
Scans and updates your entire site automatically
-
Fixes accessibility barriers in real time
-
Adds an accessibility statement to your site for legal protection
-
Supports users with screen readers, cognitive impairments, epilepsy, and more
-
Continuously monitors and updates for compliance with ADA, WCAG, and Section 508
Through our partnership, Saltech Systems offers clients a 20% discount on accessWidget. At less than $50/month, this is a small investment compared to the average $25,000 lawsuit settlement for accessibility violations.
Legal & Financial Risks of Inaccessibility
The number of digital ADA lawsuits filed in the U.S. continues to grow each year. In fact, over 4,000 lawsuits were filed in 2023 alone. All it takes is one frustrated visitor to trigger a lawsuit—and these often don’t require proof of financial damage.
Even if you believe your site is accessible, it’s worth performing an ADA compliance audit. At Saltech Systems, we offer both manual accessibility audits and automated remediation tools to protect your brand and provide equal access to all users.
Start Your Website Accessibility Journey Today
Making your website accessible benefits everyone—not just people with disabilities. It improves usability, boosts your SEO, enhances brand reputation, and reduces legal risk.
Ready to take the next step?
🔹 Visit our Website Accessibility Program
🔹 Explore our Web Design Services
🔹 Contact Us for a free trial of accessWidget
Protect your business, reach more customers, and do the right thing. Invest in website accessibility today.
If you want to learn more, visit our website accessibility program page or contact us to start a free trial with accessiBe.