1. Keyboard-Friendly Navigation

A fully accessible website must work without a mouse. Users should be able to navigate menus, forms, pop-ups, and interactive components using only the keyboard.
Insight: Poor keyboard navigation is one of the most common ADA violations found during audits.

2. Clear and Visible Focus Indicators

Focus states must be obvious when users move through the page with a keyboard. Modern guidelines emphasize strong outlines, color contrast, and motion-friendly focus styles.
This is one of the core requirements in WCAG 2.2.

3. Proper ALT Text for All Images

Screen reader users rely on ALT text to understand visuals.
This includes:

• product images

• icons

• infographics

• decorative images marked as “null”

Result: ALT text directly impacts both accessibility and SEO performance.

4. Sufficient Color Contrast

Text and UI elements must be readable for users with low vision, color blindness, or those viewing content in bright conditions.
Modern websites aim for at least WCAG AA contrast standards.

5. Accessible Forms and Error Messages

Forms should have:

• clear labels

• instructions

• error messages that explain how to fix issues

• logical tab order

Insight: Many ADA lawsuits are triggered by inaccessible checkout or contact forms.

6. Screen Reader-Compatible Structure

Headings, lists, landmarks, and ARIA roles help screen reader users understand the layout of a page.
A clean semantic structure is essential for a usable, compliant interface.

7. Resizable Text Without Breaking Layouts

Users should be able to increase text size by up to 200% without losing content or functionality.
Responsive typography is no longer optional — it is a core accessibility requirement.

8. Accessible Interactive Elements (Buttons, Menus, Modals)

All interactive components must be:

• reachable

• readable

• operable

• properly labeled

This includes dropdowns, sliders, accordions, navigation menus, and modal dialogs.
Common problem: Developers often forget to trap focus inside modals.

9. Captions and Transcripts for Multimedia

Videos, webinars, animations, and podcasts require accurate captions or transcripts.
This supports users who are deaf or hard of hearing — and improves search indexing.

10. A Clear, Public Accessibility Statement

A modern website should publish an accessibility statement that explains:

• commitment to accessibility

• recent audit efforts

• known issues

• contact information

• ongoing improvements

Insight: In 2026, the presence of an accessibility statement is increasingly seen as a key sign of responsible compliance.

Conclusion

These ten accessibility features form the foundation of a modern, inclusive website. Businesses that implement them not only reduce legal risk but also create a smoother, more intuitive experience for all users.
If your website is missing any of these components, now is the right time to take action with a professional assessment.