Why Digital Accessibility Overlays Don’t Work – And What Does
The Problem with Accessibility Overlays
The European Commission’s Web Accessibility Directive Report, specifically identifies that overlays fail to provide true accessibility compliance, meaning they will not help you comply with the European Accessibility Act, the American Disabilities Act or any other legislation globally.
Overlays often:
- Miss Critical Issues – Overlays rely on automated fixes that cannot detect or correct structural problems in code.
- Create New Barriers – Some overlays interfere with screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies.
- Give a False Sense of Compliance – Businesses assume they are compliant, but overlays do not meet WCAG standards, leaving them vulnerable to legal action.
The Overlay Fact Sheet further highlights the legal risks, noting that lawsuits against companies using overlays are increasing. In fact, in 2023 alone, there were over 500 lawsuits filed against businesses relying on these ineffective tools.
But the most importantly, they negatively impact the user experience often making websites less accessible, rather than improving them. 900 experts and disabled people worldwide have signed a statement to this effect. It doesn’t get any clearer than that.
We must ask ourselves, if a company is still pushing overlay technology, how reliable is their accessibility expertise?
The Right Approach to Digital Accessibility
Instead of quick fixes, businesses should invest in real accessibility solutions that address the root causes of accessibility barriers. This includes:
Conclusion
Accessibility overlays promise an easy fix but fail to deliver real, lasting accessibility. Instead, companies must adopt a hybrid approach that integrates expert insights with automation, and user feedback to ensure inclusivity and compliance. They must design and build with accessibility in mind. As regulatory scrutiny increases, businesses that prioritize genuine accessibility will gain a competitive edge – putting the customer first, so they come back time and again