Accessibility an overlay has been detected on the page
Description
An accessibility overlay is a tool or service that aims to improve the accessibility of websites for users with disabilities by applying adjustments directly on top of the existing website content.
SiteLint audits determine if there is an overlay installed.
Why it matters
While accessibility overlays can help address some accessibility concerns, relying solely on them to achieve compliance with legal standards such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the European Union’s Web Accessibility Directive may not be sufficient. Legal cases have highlighted that websites must be fundamentally accessible, and overlays alone may not meet this requirement.
How to fix it
- Recognize that overlays should complement, not replace, foundational accessibility practices. They are tools that can enhance accessibility but cannot substitute for a well-designed, inherently accessible website.
- Look for overlays that offer a comprehensive set of features designed to accommodate various disabilities, including compatibility with assistive technologies, text-to-audio conversion, alternative images for text, high contrast modes, and more.
Known Limitations
Accessibility overlays can serve as a quick fix for some accessibility issues, but they should not replace comprehensive accessibility efforts. Websites aiming for true inclusivity should consider conducting thorough accessibility audits, implementing manual fixes where necessary, and continuously testing their sites with real users who have disabilities. Overlays can complement these efforts but should not be seen as a standalone solution.
Resources
Rule
- ID:
overlay