DESIGN IN 2026

5 Web Accessibility Design Rules You Can’t Ignore

WCAG lawsuits are climbing fast — here’s what to fix first.

RULE 1

Contrast Isn’t Optional

Body text needs at least a 4.5:1 color contrast ratio to meet the WCAG 2.1 AA standard courts now use.

RULE 2

Design a Visible Focus State

Every button, link, and form field needs a clear outline when a keyboard user tabs to it.

RULE 3

Write Real Alt Text

Alt text should describe what an image shows, not just repeat the filename or keyword-stuff it.

RULE 4

Label Every Form Field

Placeholder text disappears the moment a user types. Forms need permanent, visible labels too.

RULE 5

Skip the Overlay Shortcut

Accessibility overlay widgets don’t lower lawsuit risk — real design fixes are what hold up.