Dajua Blanding, who goes by the stage name Dank Demoss, has taken legal action against Lyft and one of its drivers, claiming she was denied a ride because of her size. The artist, hailing from Detroit, asserts that the driver told her she was “too big to fit in the back seat” of his car.
This incident took place on January 18, when Blanding called for a Lyft to head to a family football gathering. As narrated in her legal complaint, the driver—referred to only as “John Doe”—arrived at her location but did not allow her into his car.
Blanding documented the encounter on TikTok, questioning the driver about why he thought she couldn’t fit in his Honda Civic. The driver’s responses pointed to his “tired tires” and said the back seat didn’t have enough room.
Eventually, the driver canceled Blanding’s ride and left her without transportation. Out of disappointment and emotional distress, Blanding decided to file a lawsuit.
Pursuing Legal Action Against Lyft
On January 27, Blanding moved forward with a lawsuit against both Lyft and the driver, alleging civil rights violations. The lawsuit claims that the driver refused service due to her size, stating that his “tires were not capable of supporting her weight,” and locked his car doors to leave before she approached.
Blanding mentions that the driver proposed she order a Lyft XL—a roomier vehicle choice—but she maintains she had never needed one before.
Discrimination or Safety Concern?
Blanding’s legal team views the situation as blatant discrimination.
Attorney John Marko stated, “Denying someone a ride because of their weight is akin to denial based on other personal attributes like race or faith. It’s discrimination pure and simple.”
Adding to this, another lawyer, Zach Runyan, highlighted the risks of leaving her stranded. “Consider if Ms. Blanding was in need of urgent help or shelter. It could have been dangerous.”
A Divided Public Response
The lawsuit has prompted a lively debate online, where perspectives are divided. Some social media voices defend the driver’s decision, citing concerns about vehicle capacity rather than prejudice.
One user commented, “From a safety viewpoint, the driver was within his rights. A car seatbelt might not fit well, and additional weight could strain vehicle components like tires.”
Others argue, “While body positivity is crucial, safety can’t be ignored. Cars come with weight limits, and cancellation was within the driver’s rights if he felt uneasy.”
However, Blanding has also received support from those who see the incident as an unjust refusal based on looks. “If Lyft drivers can decline rides due to weight, where’s the line?” asked one observer. “Could height be next? Or other attributes? This could set a troubling precedent.”
Remarking from personal experience, a self-identified “big, beautiful woman” (BBW) shared, “I feel for her; but as a plus-sized woman myself, I always go for an XL to travel comfortably. It just seems wiser.”
Compensation for Personal Distress
By taking legal steps, Blanding seeks reimbursement for the emotional turmoil and embarrassment she faced. Moreover, she is looking for coverage for legal and court expenses.
In response to the incident, Lyft released a statement:
“Lyft stands firmly against any discrimination. We are committed to fostering a community where respect and mutual kindness reign supreme. Our guidelines and terms strictly forbid harassment or discrimination.”
As the legal case unfolds, its impact may shape how ride-sharing services handle similar issues related to passenger size in the future.
Your Thoughts?
What are your thoughts on this situation—does the driver have a reason to cancel, or does this reflect discrimination? Share your views, and let others weigh in as well!
