A Detroit-based musician has taken legal action against a prominent ride-sharing service and its driver, claiming she was denied transportation due to her size. Dank Demoss, known professionally as Dajua Blanding, initiated the lawsuit in Michigan’s Wayne County Circuit Court on January 27. The complaint alleges that on January 18, Blanding arranged for a ride through the platform to attend a family gathering. Upon arrival, the driver allegedly refused to allow her entry into the vehicle, citing concerns about her weight. This incident not only prevented Blanding from reaching her destination but also subjected her to emotional distress. The case highlights issues of discrimination within the ride-sharing industry and calls for stricter enforcement of anti-discrimination policies.

The incident occurred when Blanding requested a ride to join her cousin's football viewing party. After booking the service, the driver arrived at her residence within 10 to 15 minutes. As Blanding approached the car, the driver reportedly locked the doors and attempted to drive away. When confronted by Blanding, he allegedly stated that she was "too big" to fit in the back seat and expressed concerns about his vehicle's ability to support her weight. Despite Blanding’s assurance that there was sufficient space and no need for a larger vehicle, the driver canceled the trip and left without providing further assistance. This decision left Blanding unable to attend the planned event.

The driver's actions were reportedly based on previous experiences with passengers of similar body types. He suggested that overweight individuals should opt for Lyft XL services, which are designed for groups of up to six people and come at a higher cost. However, this suggestion disregarded Blanding's immediate needs and contributed to her feeling of exclusion and embarrassment. The lawsuit accuses both the driver and the ride-sharing company of creating a hostile environment and engaging in discriminatory practices. Legal experts have emphasized that denying someone transportation based on their physical characteristics is akin to racial or religious discrimination and is unlawful under current regulations.

Blanding's legal team argues that such behavior is not only morally wrong but also poses potential safety risks. They pointed out that had Blanding been stranded in an emergency situation, the consequences could have been far more severe. The plaintiff is seeking compensation for various damages, including emotional distress, humiliation, and mental anguish. Additionally, she is requesting reimbursement for legal fees and associated costs. In response to the allegations, the ride-sharing company has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a community free from discrimination and harassment. It emphasized that its guidelines strictly prohibit any form of prejudiced treatment and assured that it would take appropriate measures to address the matter.