A rapper from Detroit has filed a lawsuit against Lyft, claiming that one of its drivers refused to give her a ride because of her size.
Dajua Blanding, who goes by the stage name Dank Demoss, took legal action against the rideshare company and the driver, identified as John Doe, in Michigan’s Circuit Court for Wayne County on January 27.
According to court documents, Blanding ordered a Lyft ride on January 18 to visit her cousin and watch a football game. About 10 to 15 minutes later, the driver arrived at her home. But when she approached the car, he allegedly refused to let her in.
Blanding claims the driver locked his doors as she walked toward the vehicle and attempted to leave. She was left feeling confused by his actions.
Part of the incident was recorded on video. In the clip, Blanding is heard saying, “I can fit in this car.” The driver then responds, “Believe me, you can’t.”
She asked why he was canceling the trip, and that’s when he allegedly told her she was “too big” to fit in his car. According to the lawsuit, he also claimed that his “tires were not capable of supporting” her weight.
Blanding insisted there was enough space in the back seat and that she did not need a bigger vehicle. But the driver refused to take her and canceled the ride.
The driver allegedly said he had dealt with this “problem” before and that larger passengers should book a Lyft XL, which is a more expensive option meant for bigger groups.
After canceling, the driver left, and Blanding was unable to attend her cousin’s party. She later spoke to FOX 2, saying, “I’ve been in cars smaller than that. It hurt my feelings.”
The lawsuit accuses Lyft and the driver of discrimination and creating a hostile environment.
Blanding’s attorney, John Marko, stated that refusing service due to someone’s weight is just as unacceptable as refusing based on race or religion. Another attorney, Zach Runyan, highlighted the dangers of leaving a passenger stranded.
Blanding is seeking damages for stress and emotional distress. She is also asking for compensation for legal fees.
Lyft responded, saying they do not tolerate discrimination and that their policies strictly prohibit any form of unfair treatment.