Tribute Technology

Would Your Business Survive an ADA Lawsuit?

May 13, 2022

Would Your Business Survive an ADA Lawsuit? 

Businesses with websites that don’t meet the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines have long flown under the regulatory radar. But that appears to be ending as attorneys target small businesses with ADA demand letters or even take them to court.  



The Washington Post reported that New York went from only 125 ADA lawsuits in 2013 all the way up to 2,744 in 2021. And New York isn’t the only state getting hit. There were 11,452 disability-related lawsuits in 2021. 


What’s at risk if your business website isn’t accessible to people with disabilities? According to UserWay, the fine for not being accessible to the disabled community can range from $50,000 to $100,000. This doesn’t include other fees like paying your lawyer and taking time off from work to work through the legal issues. 


If those sorts of penalties cause you to lose sleep at night, you need to make an ADA-compliant website a priority. Investing in an ADA-compliant website does cost money, but it’s much less expensive and time-consuming than facing an ADA lawsuit. Plus, an accessible website means more people can navigate your website more easily. 


Let’s go over what exactly ADA compliance means, so your firm can avoid getting into legal trouble. 

What ADA Compliance Means

An ADA-compliant website means your site is accessible to users with visual, cognitive, hearing, and motor impairments. Remember that an aging population often has many of these impairments, too, and an ADA-compliant website will help you reach more baby boomers. Website accessibility includes two main components: easy site navigation and understanding what the site's content is about. 


Put yourself in the shoes of someone living with a disability. Visiting a website isn’t as simple as doing a quick Google search, clicking the link, and scanning the content for the information you need. Many people with motor disabilities rely on keyboard-only navigation because they can’t use a mouse. Those with visual impairments need enlarged text or a screen reader to read the content aloud for them. And so on. Your site needs to be accessible to people with and without disabilities, or else your site is an easy target for an ADA demand letter or a legal claim. 

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Risk of Not Being ADA Compliant

If you don’t invest in an ADA-compliant website, you could increase your risk of receiving a demand letter. A demand letter isn’t the same as a lawsuit. It’s the first legal step before on the path to a lawsuit. In other words, it’s a chance to respond to whoever sent you the letter and try to work out the dispute outside of court. Most cases do settle out of court for undisclosed amounts. 


If a demand letter escalates to a lawsuit, you’ll need to go to court, invest in a lawyer, and build a case. This already takes a lot of time and money without factoring in the fines you face if the court doesn’t rule in your favor. In addition to the financial costs, any lawsuit can have a negative impact on your business reputation. 

Decrease Your Chances of Legal Trouble with UserWay

There’s been a dramatic increase in ADA lawsuits in recent years, including against funeral homes. Some lawyers are searching the internet for non-compliant sites and sending ADA demand letters to businesses without ADA-compliant websites.  


How can you make sure your website is more ADA compliant? We partner with UserWay to offer Tribute Accessibility. Tribute Technology delivers this innovative product through its network of Premier Partners including leading providers such as FrontRunner Professional, MKJ Marketing, SRS Computing, Funeral Tech, CFS, and others. With a widget in the form of a single line of code, your website adjusts based on the user’s needs, whether they’re visually impaired, motor impaired, epileptic, or live with another type of disability. 


UserWay provides all its paid subscribers with legal assistance if they need it. Users can let them know right away if they receive a demand letter or ADA lawsuit. UserWay’s legal team provides an assessment of the claim’s validity, a Statement of Compliance as proof your site’s accessible with UserWay’s AI-Powered Accessibility Widget, and, if required, an expert opinion as part of your official response to the claimant.  

What Features an ADA-Compliant Website Includes 

Many features make up ADA-compliant websites. Make sure that your website includes all of them to decrease your legal risk. To read more about what an ADA-compliant website looks like, check out this article. These are just a few of the features. 

  • Accessible call-to-action buttons - Make sure everyone can easily access your call-to-action buttons, no matter if they’re using their mouse or keyboard to navigate it.  
  • Adjust time-constrained elements - Allow users to adjust the time limit for elements like completing lengthy preplanning fields or turn off the time constraints completely. 
  • Avoid content that could trigger seizures - Blinking text and flashing animations could trigger seizures for some users, so let them skip over this potentially triggering content. 
  • Dyslexia friendly font - Fonts like fancy cursive make it difficult for users with dyslexia to read. Let them switch to a dyslexia friendly font to avoid frustration and access your information more easily. 
  • Image descriptions - These appear if your images don’t load or get read aloud for those who need it. Including image descriptions allows people with visual impairments to more fully understand your website.
  • Keyboard-only navigation - Users with disabilities benefit from keyboard-only navigation if they can’t use a mouse. 
  • Light and dark contrast - Make sure your website visitors can read your text and see the color differences with the right amount of light and dark color contrast.  
  • Simplify visuals – Elements like poorly defined images, crowded pages, and distracting images make it difficult for users to understand. An ADA widget simplifies these visuals.  
  • Text transcripts for videos - Those with hearing disabilities rely on text transcripts for videos. Oftentimes, the auto-generated transcripts aren’t accurate, so you should transcribe them yourself or use a more advanced transcription tool.

How ADA Compliance Benefits You and Your Families 

An ADA-compliant site reduces your chances of legal trouble. It also saves your firm time and money. Dealing with an ADA lawsuit can eat up time and money, not to mention put a dent in your firm’s reputation and existing relationships. You can help avoid all this by investing in ADA compliance. 


But most importantly, a website that’s accessible to ALL users better serves your families and community. An accessible website: 

  1. Reaches more people and includes everyone 
  2. Sets yourself apart from the competition 
  3. Gives your employees and families peace of mind that all family members can access your site 
  4. Reduces frustration for people with disabilities while grieving and funeral planning 

Learn more about our partnership with UserWay and how to avoid legal trouble related to web accessibility by visiting our ADA webpage.

25 Apr, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 25, 2024 Contact For Further Information: Tribute Technology 315 Raemisch Rd., Ste G Waunakee, WI, 53597 press@tributetech.com  **Tribute Technology Partners with C&J Financial to Enhance Insurance Assignment Processing** WAUNAKEE, WI — Tribute Technology, a leading provider of technology solutions for the funeral profession, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with C&J Financial, the leader in insurance assignment funding™. Effective Thursday, April 25, C&J Financial will become the exclusive insurance assignments partner for Tribute Technology, taking over operations previously managed by the Tribute Insurance Assignments division. This partnership marks a significant step in Tribute Technology's ongoing commitment to providing seamless and efficient services to its clients. By aligning with C&J Financial, Tribute Technology leverages C&J's extensive experience and specialized capabilities in processing insurance assignments. This collaboration ensures that funeral homes and their clients receive fast, reliable funding services from C&J and allows Tribute Technology to focus on building new and innovative technology solutions for the funeral profession. “Tribute Technology is on a mission to create technology that helps funeral professionals run their business and better serve their families. Our partnership with C&J Financial is the perfect pairing between Tribute’s technology with C&J’s financial expertise to meet the evolving needs of our clients,” said Charlie Cole, CEO of Tribute Technology. “C&J’s reputation for fast, accurate, and dependable insurance processing aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver comprehensive, user-friendly solutions.” All insurance claims processing for Tribute Technology clients will be handled by C&J Financial beginning from the specified date in April. However, the process for submitting claims will remain unchanged for Tribute Technology users. Clients will continue to utilize the existing platforms provided by Tribute Technology, ensuring a smooth transition and no disruption in services. “We are excited to partner with Tribute Technology and bring our specialized expertise in insurance assignments to an even broader audience,” stated Jamie Meredith, Executive Vice President of C&J Financial. “This partnership allows us to focus on what we do best, enabling funeral directors to spend more time supporting families during their time of need which provides a better experience for the family.” Members of the media with questions about Tribute Technology or any of the company’s products and services are asked to contact press@tributetech.com . **About Tribute Technology** Tribute Technology provides comprehensive technology solutions for the funeral sector, aimed at enhancing the way funeral professionals manage their services. Tribute Technology’s platforms offer a range of tools from payment processing to memorialization features, designed to streamline operations and improve the client experience. **About C&J Financial** C&J Financial is the leading provider of insurance assignment funding for funeral services, specializing in processing and funding life insurance benefits. With a commitment to quick, efficient service, C&J eliminates the challenges faced by funeral homes when accepting insurance assignments. By doing so, C&J empowers families to honor their loved ones while easing the financial burden during difficult times. **Media Contact:** Jamie Meredith Executive Vice President C&J Financial, LLC 800.785.0003 JamieM@CJF.com **Media Contact:** Tribute Technology Press@tributetech.com **### End of Release**
24 Apr, 2024
Tribute Technology is partnering with Magnolia Memorial Marketplace to make urn distribution more efficient and cost-effective for funeral directors like you. Why Magnolia Memorial Marketplace? They aren't just another supplier; it's a company created by funeral directors who understand what funeral homes and cremation providers need. They've designed their service to cut down on your costs — without cutting corners on quality. By joining forces with Magnolia Memorial Marketplace, you could save 25-30% off your usual expenses. Early Adopters Group – A Special Invite We're looking for forward-thinking funeral homes to join our Early Adopters Group. Your feedback will be invaluable, and we think the extra savings will be too! We have a limited number of spots available for our Early Adopters Group. If saving money and being at the forefront of industry innovation sounds good, don't wait. Click here to sign up now and secure your spot.
24 Apr, 2024
Online obituaries are a cornerstone of a funeral home's digital presence, driving substantial website traffic and serving as a critical marketing asset. Amidst the sea of metrics, one often overlooked aspect holds immense potential for amplifying brand visibility and fostering meaningful connections: comments. Why are comments on online obituaries more than just a digital nicety? Foster Community and Support : Condolences from friends and family not only provide comfort to those who are grieving but also demonstrate a funeral home’s commitment to being a pillar of support during difficult times. Non-Invasive Community Outreach : Unlike traditional marketing tactics that may come across as intrusive, engaging with online obituaries allows funeral homes to reach their community in a subtle and respectful manner. Improved SEO : The Facebook algorithm judges content (in part) based on engagement levels. If visitors to your online obituaries offer you the chance to increase engagement, take it. Every positive comment on an online obituary serves as a powerful endorsement and referral for the funeral home, acting as social proof in an era where consumer trust is paramount. In today's digital landscape, where consumers rely heavily on reviews and recommendations, leveraging these comments as a marketing tool can significantly enhance the credibility and reputation of funeral homes, ultimately attracting new clients and driving business growth. Questions? don’t hesitate to reach out: CSS-Team@Tributetech.com
09 Apr, 2024
Tribute Technology and Treasured Memories® Partnering to Elevate Funeral Service WAUNAKEE, WI — Tribute Technology, a leading provider of technology solutions for funeral directors, is proud to announce its partnership with Treasured Memories®, a premier consultancy and benefits provider for independent funeral homes. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in making advanced technology more accessible and meaningful for funeral directors and the communities they serve across North America. Treasured Memories has been a beacon of support for funeral homes across the U.S. since its inception in 1988. Led and championed by Jimmy Altmeyer Jr., a fourth-generation funeral director, Treasured Memories has grown to epitomize excellence and dedication within the funeral service profession. Jimmy's commitment to exceptional service is mirrored in the legacy of Altmeyer Funeral Homes & Crematory, which has expanded to serve numerous communities across Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida since its founding in 1917. The partnership heralds a new era of enhanced support for funeral directors, with Treasured Memories clients gaining access to Tribute Technology’s cutting-edge software and resources. The initiative will begin with introducing Tribute Technology’s Premier Partner, Legacy Touch, to Treasured Memories clients, allowing them to offer beautifully crafted Fingerprint Keepsakes to families seeking to memorialize their loved ones in a uniquely personal way. "Deciding to partner with Tribute Technology was the best choice for us. Tribute Technology stands out as the premier provider of technology solutions in our profession. Their commitment to innovation, combined with a deep understanding of the needs of both funeral directors and the families they serve, aligns perfectly with our values at Treasured Memories,” Altmeyer said. “This partnership is not just about enhancing our service offerings; it's about setting a new standard in the profession.” This partnership ensures that all members of the Treasured Memories network benefit, reinforcing both organizations' commitment to supporting funeral directors in offering compassionate, personalized services to families during their time of need. "Jimmy is an incredible leader within the profession, and we are honored to partner with Treasured Memories. This partnership is poised to deliver the finest technology solutions for funeral directors, and we are excited for what the future holds,” said Tribute Technology Chief Customer Officer Courtney Gould Miller. Members of the media with questions about Tribute Technology or any of the company’s products and services are asked to contact press@tributetech.com . About Tribute Technology: Tribute Technology’s mission is to bring the best technology to all funeral homes, to help communities around the world celebrate life, and to pay tribute to loved ones. Over 9,000 end-of-life providers already use Tribute Technology’s software and product offerings, including websites, marketing services, management software, online planning, personalized memorial keepsakes, payment processing, and other solutions. Tribute Technology is focused on innovating to help funeral directors save time on tasks, so they can focus more on connecting with the families who have lost a loved one. The company’s goal is to give funeral directors everything they need to run their business in one place, making their lives easier. ### Contact For Further Information: Tribute Technology 315 Raemisch Rd., Ste G Waunakee, WI, 53597 press@tributetech.com
05 Apr, 2024
Tribute Technology and Treasured Memories® are teaming up to make technology more accessible, visible, and meaningful to funeral directors and the communities they serve. Treasured Memories is a trusted resource for independent funeral homes, providing supplier benefits and consulting services to its extensive membership of over 200 funeral homes across the U.S. since 1988. Jimmy Altmeyer Jr., a fourth-generation funeral director, founded Treasured Memories and serves as the president of Altmeyer Funeral Homes & Crematory, which now operates more than 50 firms. He draws upon a rich legacy of family service. The family business was started back in 1917 in Wheeling, WV, and has since expanded to Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. Jimmy has become well-known in the profession for his dedication to offering outstanding service to families and for supporting funeral directors across the country. “Jimmy Altmeyer is an incredible leader within the profession, and it’s been impressive watching him build up Treasured Memories over the years. It’s an honor that he chose to work with us,” said Tribute Technology Chief Customer Officer Courtney Gould Miller. “This partnership will offer the very best technology solutions for funeral directors, and we can’t wait to share what’s happening next.” As part of this collaboration, Treasured Memories clients will receive personalized solutions for their firm through Tribute Technology’s software and resources. The first stage of the partnership will involve Tribute Technology’s Premier Partner, Legacy Touch. Treasured Memories clients now have access to sharing Legacy Touch’s incredible Fingerprint Keepsakes with families. Stay tuned for updates on what’s coming next! Click here to learn more about Treasured Memories.
04 Apr, 2024
It was a true honor for Tribute Technology’s Obituary Writer to be named a winner in the 2024 Artificial Intelligence Excellence Awards program, hosted by the Business Intelligence Group. Tribute Obituary Writer was honored in the Artificial Creativity category for a Product or Software. As families navigate the complexities of loss, Tribute Obituary Writer stands as a testament to the transformative power of technology in honoring loved ones. Tribute Obituary Writer’s intuitive design empowers users to navigate the writing process with ease. The software streamlines the editing process, allowing for adjustments to content and length as needed, ensuring that every tribute is a heartfelt representation of a loved one’s legacy. We deeply appreciate this recognition of our AI-powered technology, which underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence. Click here to read more about the award. Click here to learn more about Tribute Obituary Writer. Click here to learn more on why online obituaries matter
01 Apr, 2024
A first-of-its-kind bill that would have impacted the legality of fingerprint recording by deathcare professionals was not advanced by a committee within the Florida Senate. Many within the funeral profession were closely watching the development of this bill. Florida Privacy Bill SB 504 sought to regulate funeral homes' collection, notices, and practices related to the biometric data of decedents. If passed, the bill would have required funeral homes to provide written disclosure of their policies related to the use of biometric data collected from the deceased. The funeral home would have also been required to give the option to opt out of such a sale. Though the proposed Florida bill did not pass, the proposal highlights the importance of funeral homes’ print collection practices and underscores the concerns that families may place on these matters. Tribute Technology’s Premier Partner, Legacy Touch, which is a leading provider of Fingerprint Keepsakes, strongly encourages funeral homes to (1) inform families they’re taking prints and (2) obtain a signed Release or Acknowledgment confirming that the family either consents to the collection or understands that a print cannot be obtained later or replaced once deleted if the family declines print collection. You can learn more about this important topic by watching Legacy Touch’s webinar hosted by Tribute Technology on the legality of Fingerprint Keepsakes.  At a minimum, Legacy Touch recommends that firms should have a sample disclosure, which could be included in your Statement of Funeral Goods and Services. You can view an example of a disclosure in our resource guide, which can be downloaded here .
01 Apr, 2024
We are excited to unveil an innovative change for clients with Tribute Technology websites – and the outcomes are remarkable. Tribute Wall will now show up first, becoming the default view on obituaries rather than the obituary or event itself. This update redefines the user experience and engagement, while also delivering tangible benefits across various fronts: Increased Condolences: Presenting the Tribute Wall first has led to a remarkable 56% surge in posted condolences, fostering a deeper sense of community support for your families. Enhanced Engagement: With Tribute Wall as the default view, we've observed a 23% increase in user retention, with visitors returning for additional page views. Boost in Purchases: Clients have experienced an impressive 8.5% rise in purchases per session when utilizing Tribute Wall as the initial view. Extended Session Duration: Visitors are spending 16% more time on the platform, engrossed by the immersive experience offered by Tribute Wall. Tribute Wall isn't just a feature; it's a catalyst for elevating your website, driving revenue growth, and nurturing a compassionate community for those navigating loss. It's worth noting that should funeral homes prefer, Tribute Wall can be reverted upon request. This transformative update is poised to elevate your online presence, boost revenue streams, and foster community engagement, enriching both your business and the families you serve. We're excited to introduce this update and look forward to the positive impact it will have on your online memorial experience! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out: CSS-Team@Tributetech.com
01 Apr, 2024
Google Ads' Customer Match feature empowers advertisers to target ads based on customer data. A recent glitch has raised concerns among funeral professionals. At Tribute Technology, it's important to clarify that we do not employ Customer Match lists for our clients. This decision aligns with Google's policy, which prohibits the use of sensitive interest categories for ad targeting or product/service promotion. Despite our position, some clients have received emails from Google Ads indicating that their accounts may be eligible to use Customer Match lists. Follow-up emails have cautioned about potential account suspensions due to policy violations. Our team at Tribute Technology has informed Google about this glitch. We want to assure our clients that their ads remain eligible and are running without interruption.  For further assistance or inquiries, please reach out to our Support Team at 1-844-200-6020 or complete this form .
25 Mar, 2024
Are those with no connection to the funeral profession outranking your funeral home in Google searches? What can you do to stop this while attracting more families to your website? Start by winning the SEO race . When it comes to combatting obituary spam, Tribute Technology CEO Charlie Cole said, “The best thing funeral homes can do is dominate their own SEO.” If you aren’t among the top search results in your area, you are missing calls. Consider Cole’s top three tips to improve your SEO, as shared in a recent webinar on protecting your business and families from spammers : Be the first to post your obituaries. Share obituaries on every social account you manage. Have a fast website. Learn more about how to outrank the competition and increase your website’s searchability and relevance by talking to one of our marketing specialists .
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