A plus-sized rapper has taken legal action against Lyft after a driver allegedly refused to give her a ride, claiming she was “too big to fit in the back seat.” The controversy has sparked heated debates about discrimination, passenger safety, and ride-share policies.
Dajua Blanding, better known as Dank Demoss, filed a lawsuit against Lyft and the unidentified driver, stating that she was humiliated and discriminated against due to her size. The incident, which was captured in a viral TikTok video, has divided the internet, with some supporting her claim and others siding with the driver.
What Happened? The Incident That Sparked the Lawsuit
According to Blanding, she ordered a Lyft ride on January 18 to attend a football watch party at her cousin’s house. The driver, identified in legal documents as John Doe, arrived at her Detroit-area home within 10–15 minutes.
However, when she attempted to enter the vehicle, things took an unexpected turn.
In the TikTok video she shared, Blanding can be heard arguing with the driver, who tells her that his car “can’t handle her weight.” The discussion escalates when she asks, “What makes you think I can’t fit in this car?”
The driver responds by pointing out his car’s small size and his worn-out tires, saying, “To be more specific with you, I’ve got very tired tires.” He then adds, “You have no space…I have no space in the back.”
Eventually, the driver canceled the ride and left, leaving Blanding stranded and unable to attend her cousin’s event.
Blanding’s Legal Action: Claiming Discrimination
Nine days after the incident, on January 27, Blanding filed a lawsuit against both Lyft and the driver, arguing that her civil rights were violated.
According to court filings:
- The driver allegedly locked his doors and attempted to drive away upon seeing Blanding approach.
- He reportedly refused her a ride because “she was too big to fit in the back seat.”
- He also claimed his tires couldn’t support her weight and suggested she book a Lyft XL instead.
Blanding insists that she never needed an XL ride before and that the driver’s refusal was discriminatory.
Is This Discrimination or a Safety Concern?
Blanding’s legal team argues that denying a ride based on a person’s weight is no different than discrimination based on race or religion.
Her attorney, John Marko, stated:
“Refusing someone transportation due to their weight is no different than refusing someone based on their race or religion. Discrimination of any kind should never be tolerated.”
Another attorney, Zach Runyan, pointed out the potential danger of leaving someone stranded, adding:
“Imagine if Ms. Blanding had been in an unsafe situation. Refusing her a ride because of her size isn’t just wrong—it’s dangerous.”
However, many argue that the driver’s decision was based on practicality and vehicle limitations, not discrimination.
Social Media Divided: Public Reaction to the Lawsuit
The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with users split on the issue.
Support for the Driver
Many sided with the Lyft driver, arguing that his vehicle simply wasn’t suitable for a larger passenger.
One Facebook user commented:
“That car was obviously too small. The driver had every right to refuse due to safety concerns. The seatbelt wouldn’t fit properly, and the extra weight could damage the car’s suspension.”
Another added:
“I’m against discrimination 100%, but this wasn’t discrimination. Cars can only safely hold a certain amount of weight.”
Some even accused Blanding of trying to exploit the situation, calling the lawsuit “a money grab.”
“It’s a shame you’re trying to win the ‘ghetto lottery.’ The lawyers are just taking advantage of this nonsense.”
Support for Blanding
On the other hand, some users believed that Blanding was treated unfairly and that the driver should have honored the ride request.
A supporter tweeted:
“He could’ve at least tried instead of refusing outright. This is why we need stronger discrimination laws.”
Another person, who identified as a plus-sized woman, shared:
“As a BBW, I always order an XL ride because I know it’ll be more comfortable. But at the same time, Lyft drivers shouldn’t be able to refuse based on body size alone.”
Lyft’s Response: Company Policy and Statement
Following the lawsuit, Lyft released a statement emphasizing its commitment to fair treatment and non-discrimination:
“Lyft unequivocally condemns all forms of discrimination. We believe in a community where everyone is treated with equal respect and mutual kindness. Our community guidelines and terms of service explicitly prohibit harassment or discrimination.”
However, Lyft also allows drivers to refuse rides under certain conditions, particularly when they feel unsafe or unable to accommodate a passenger.
Legal Implications: What’s Next for the Case?
Blanding is seeking compensation for emotional and financial damages, including:
- Stress, humiliation, and embarrassment
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Legal fees and court costs
If the case goes to trial, it could set a precedent for ride-sharing companies regarding their responsibilities to passengers of all body types.
Final Thoughts: Was the Driver Justified or Wrong?
The debate surrounding Dajua Blanding’s lawsuit against Lyft raises important questions about discrimination, personal responsibility, and safety concerns in ride-sharing services.
- Was the driver acting within his rights by refusing a ride based on safety concerns?
- Should Lyft require drivers to accommodate all passengers, regardless of body size?
- Does this lawsuit highlight a real issue, or is it simply an overreaction?
As the legal battle unfolds, one thing is clear—this case has ignited a broader conversation about inclusivity, fairness, and practicality in the ride-sharing industry.
