Ensuring web accessibility is crucial for creating an inclusive online experience for all users. However, common mistakes in accessibility implementation can hinder user experience and lead to legal compliance issues. In this article, we'll identify some frequent accessibility errors and provide solutions to avoid them.
Missing Alternative Text for Images
Failing to provide descriptive alt text for images prevents users with visual impairments from understanding their content.
Solution: Always include descriptive alt text that conveys the purpose and context of each image. Avoid using generic phrases like "image" or "image123." Instead, describe the image's content and function.
Inaccessible Form Fields
Forms without proper labels, instructions, or accessible input fields can be challenging for users with disabilities to navigate.
Solution: Ensure all form elements have associated labels using the <label> element. Provide clear instructions and use accessible input types like <input type="text"> and <input type="email">. Use semantic HTML5 elements like <fieldset> and <legend> for grouping related form elements.
Poor Color Contrast
Low color contrast between text and background makes content difficult to read for users with low vision or color blindness:
Solution: Choose color combinations with sufficient contrast ratios, following WCAG guidelines. Use tools like color contrast checkers to verify contrast ratios and ensure readability.
Lack of Keyboard Accessibility
Failing to ensure keyboard navigation makes it challenging for users who cannot use a mouse, such as those with motor disabilities, to navigate your site.
Solution: Ensure all interactive elements are accessible via keyboard navigation. Test your website using only the Tab key to navigate through links, buttons, and form fields. Provide visible focus indicators to indicate the currently focused element.
Ignoring Heading Structure
Improper use of heading tags disrupts the logical structure of the content, making it difficult for screen reader users to navigate.
Solution: Use heading tags in a hierarchical order to structure your content. Headings should accurately describe the content that follows and provide a clear outline of the page's structure.
Unpredictable Navigation
Inconsistent or unpredictable navigation behavior can confuse users, especially those relying on screen readers or keyboard navigation.
Solution: Ensure consistent navigation patterns across your website. Use descriptive link text that accurately represents the destination. Group related links together and organize navigation menus logically.
Lack of Video Captions and Transcripts
Videos without captions or transcripts exclude users with hearing impairments from accessing the content.
Solution: Provide accurate captions for all spoken content in videos. Include transcripts that cover all dialogue, background sounds, and relevant visual information. Ensure captions are synchronized with the video and provide an equivalent experience to the audio content.