Top 10 Accessibility Mistakes Websites Make (And How to Fix Them)

Website accessibility ensures that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can access, navigate, and engage with online content. Unfortunately, many websites fall short, often unintentionally. These mistakes can alienate users, impact search rankings, and even lead to legal consequences. This blog explores the top 10 accessibility mistakes websites make and provides actionable fixes to ensure inclusivity.

1. Missing or Inadequate Alt Text for Images

Alt text (alternative text) describes images for visually impaired users relying on screen readers. Many websites neglect to add alt text or use vague descriptions like "image123."

Fix:

• Write concise and descriptive alt text that conveys the purpose of the image.

• Avoid using "image of" or "picture of" as it’s redundant.

• Use tools like WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool to identify missing alt text.

Example:

Instead of: alt="dog" Use: alt="Golden Retriever playing in a park"

2. Poor Color Contrast

Low color contrast between text and background makes content difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including color blindness.

Fix:

Use online tools like Contrast Checker to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.

Stick to high-contrast color schemes, such as dark text on a light background.

3. Non-Descriptive Link Text

Using generic phrases like "click here" or "read more" for links doesn’t provide enough context for screen reader users.

Fix:

Use meaningful link text that describes the destination or action.

Example: Replace "Click here" with "Download the Accessibility Guide PDF."

Internal Link Suggestion:

Learn more about website accessibility guidelines.

5. No Captions for Multimedia Content

Videos without captions make it impossible for deaf or hard-of-hearing users to access the content.

Fix:

Add closed captions to all video content.

Use transcription tools like Otter.ai or Rev to generate captions efficiently.

External Link Suggestion:

Check outguidelines for creating accessible videos.

6. Inaccessible Forms

Forms with missing labels, confusing instructions, or poor error handling frustrate users with disabilities.

Fix:

Use clear and descriptive labels for all form fields.

Provide error messages that specify the issue and how to fix it.

Example: Replace "Error: Invalid input" with "Error: Please enter a valid email address."

7. Overlooking ARIA Landmarks

Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA) landmarks help screen readers navigate complex web pages. Ignoring them can make navigation a challenge.

Fix:

Implement ARIA roles like banner, main, navigation, and complementary to structure your website for assistive technologies.

Refer to theARIA Authoring Practices Guide for best practices.

8. Content That Auto-Plays

Auto-playing videos or audio can be disorienting for users, especially those with cognitive disabilities or sensory sensitivities.

Fix:

Disable auto-play for multimedia content.

Provide user controls to pause, stop, or mute content.