What this criterion requires
The AAA tier of 2.4.11: no part of the focused component may be hidden by author-created content.
Who it helps
Keyboard users, with zero tolerance for overlap.
Example: fails vs passes
A chat bubble that partially overlaps the focused Send button.
Layout reserves space so overlays never intersect any focused element.
AAA: not even partial obscuring is allowed.
How to meet and fix it
- Reserve layout space so overlays can never intersect focused elements
Common failures auditors find
- Any partial overlap of focus by sticky UI
Automated scanning catches a share of these instantly - run a free check - and a manual audit covers the judgement calls a tool cannot make.
Sources
- W3C, Understanding 2.4.12: Focus Not Obscured (Enhanced) - w3.org/WAI
- W3C, How to Meet 2.4.12 (quick reference) - w3.org/WAI/quickref
Last updated . Reviewed by the EqualWeb accessibility team.
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