Understanding WCAG: The Foundation of Web Accessibility
The
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) were developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to provide a structured approach to web accessibility. These guidelines help web developers and businesses create content that is accessible to people with disabilities, including those with visual, auditory, physical, cognitive, and neurological impairments.
WCAG Conformance Levels
WCAG is structured into three levels of conformance:
- Level A – The minimum level of accessibility.
- Level AA – The most commonly required standard in accessibility laws.
- Level AAA – The highest level of accessibility, though rarely mandated.
WCAG compliance ensures that websites are more accessible, but it is not a legal certification—it is a technical guideline that influences but does not dictate legal requirements.
WCAG 2.0 vs. WCAG 2.2: What’s Changed?
WCAG guidelines continue to evolve, with
WCAG 2.2 expanding on WCAG 2.0 to address new accessibility needs.
Key Differences Between WCAG 2.0 and WCAG 2.2
- WCAG 2.0 (2008) – Established the foundational accessibility standards and conformance levels.
- WCAG 2.2 (2023) – Introduced additional Success Criteria for mobile accessibility, low vision support, and cognitive disabilities.
While both versions share core principles, WCAG 2.2 reflects the growing expectations for web accessibility, particularly with the rise of mobile usage. Businesses should align with WCAG 2.2 to meet modern compliance demands and improve accessibility for all users.
Does WCAG Compliance Protect You from Lawsuits?
Many businesses assume that WCAG compliance prevents legal action, but this is not the case. While conforming to WCAG standards is a best practice, it does not guarantee legal immunity.
Why You Can Still Get Sued Despite WCAG Compliance
- Web Accessibility Laws Extend Beyond WCAG – Laws like the ADA, AODA, and European Accessibility Act include additional legal requirements.
- Interpretation of Compliance Varies – Courts may determine that a website is still inaccessible despite WCAG conformance.
- WCAG Does Not Cover All User Scenarios – Real-world accessibility issues may arise that WCAG guidelines do not explicitly address.
- Lack of Ongoing Maintenance – A website can lose accessibility over time if regular audits and updates are not performed.
To truly mitigate legal risk, businesses must go beyond WCAG conformance by incorporating regular
accessibility audits, manual testing, and expert remediation.
The EqualWeb Hybrid Solution: Ensuring True Compliance
At EqualWeb, we understand that accessibility compliance requires more than just WCAG conformance.
That’s why we offer a hybrid approach combining:- Automated AI Remediation – Instantly detects and fixes many accessibility issues in real time.
- Manual Audits & Expert Remediation – Ensures human oversight to catch complex accessibility barriers.
- Scalable Monitoring System – Continuously checks for new compliance issues.
- User Feedback & Testing – Involves real users with disabilities to validate accessibility solutions.
- Ongoing Compliance Maintenance – Keeps your site updated with evolving legal requirements.
Achieve Full Accessibility with EqualWeb
Relying solely on WCAG compliance is not enough to guarantee full legal protection. Businesses must take a proactive approach to
web accessibility to ensure ongoing compliance, reduce legal risk, and provide an inclusive digital experience.
EqualWeb’s
hybrid accessibility solution combines technology, expert oversight, and real-world user validation to deliver the highest standards of accessibility.
- Comply with global accessibility laws
- Reduce legal risk and avoid lawsuits
- Provide a seamless user experience for all
Want to ensure your website meets the highest accessibility standards?
Contact EqualWeb today for a free accessibility audit.
