Disney victory could mean loss for dozens of families in autism lawsuit

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A single court ruling could be an early victory for Disney World in more than three-dozen lawsuits filed against the park.

They're all filed separately by families who claim a system for disabled guests doesn't sufficiently help autistic visitors.

WFTV’s legal analyst Bill Sheaffer said Thursday’s ruling in favor of Disney could lead to an end to the legal battle.

Sheaffer said the federal court’s ruling against one family's lawsuit could end with the other 39 being thrown out.

The lawsuits claim that a system for disabled guests fails with autistic visitors.

Disney changed the system in 2013, requiring disabled guests to check in at a ride and make a reservation to return to that ride.

Before 2013, they were able to skip the lines by using the Fastpass lane.

Since the change, 40 families have sued.

Scheaffer said Disney World could now make a motion to dismiss the rest of the cases following Thursday's judgment.

Sheaffer said that unless the plaintiff appeals to the court and wins, their case could stand as a basis for the others.

“Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all our guests, and we fully comply with all ADA requirements," a Disney spokeswoman said.

Cox Media Group