Weekly Connections with Brian Lafontaine July 27, 2025
- Uncategorized
Your website could be losing you customers—and putting you at risk for lawsuits—without you even knowing it. Most business owners aren’t aware that if their site isn’t accessible to all users or optimized for search engines, they’re not only missing out on potential business but also leaving themselves exposed to costly legal action.
Website accessibility ensures your site can be used by everyone, including those with disabilities. It’s not just about being inclusive—it’s the law. Failing to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can lead to lawsuits, fines, and expensive redesigns. What’s more surprising? Most businesses don’t realize they’re out of compliance until it’s too late. At the same time, search engine optimization (SEO) helps ensure your site ranks high in Google searches, driving more potential customers your way.
Many business owners assume that having a functioning website is enough. But the truth is, a visually appealing site can still be inaccessible to a large portion of your audience—people with disabilities who can’t use your site effectively. If your website isn’t accessible, you’re not only excluding potential customers but also exposing your business to ADA-related lawsuits. This risk often goes unnoticed until a legal issue arises, costing businesses thousands of dollars in penalties and rushed updates. By being proactive, you can avoid these hidden pitfalls.
What many business owners don’t realize is that accessibility and SEO go hand in hand. When your website is more accessible, it’s easier for search engines to read and rank. Features like clear navigation and descriptive text not only help users but also improve your SEO, meaning more people can find your business online.
Neglecting these areas can severely hurt your bottom line. Use our Website Accessibility Checker to see if your site is at risk and ensure it’s both accessible and optimized for long-term success.
Brad Watkins, President & CEO of Local & Qualified, brings over 15 years of leadership in sales and digital marketing. His tenure as a Director at both Bright Edge and Townsquare Interactive saw him leading high-performing teams that were instrumental in expanding partnerships and driving significant revenue growth. Brad’s strategic vision and expertise in digital marketing are the cornerstones of his success, positioning him as a leading figure in the industry.
