What are some common accessibility barriers on websites?

There are several common accessibility barriers that users may encounter on websites, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Here are some of the most prevalent accessibility barriers:

1. **Insufficient Alt Text:** Images without descriptive alternative text (alt text) can pose a significant barrier for users who are blind or visually impaired, as screen readers rely on alt text to convey the content and purpose of images.

2. **Inaccessible Forms:** Forms that are not properly labeled, structured, or navigable can be challenging for users with disabilities, particularly those who rely on screen readers or keyboard navigation to interact with web content.

3. **Poor Color Contrast:** Low color contrast between text and background colors can make content difficult to read for users with low vision or color blindness. Ensuring sufficient color contrast is essential for readability and accessibility.

4. **Complex Navigation:** Websites with complex or inconsistent navigation structures can be challenging for users with disabilities to navigate, particularly for those who rely on screen readers or keyboard navigation.

5. **Missing or Misused Headings:** Inaccurate or improperly structured headings can make it difficult for users to understand the organization and hierarchy of content, especially for users who navigate using screen readers.

6. **Lack of Keyboard Accessibility:** Websites that are not fully accessible via keyboard navigation can present barriers for users with mobility impairments or those who cannot use a mouse. All interactive elements should be operable using keyboard shortcuts or tab navigation.

7. **Auto-Playing Media:** Auto-playing audio or video content without user control can be disruptive for users who may have difficulty processing audio information or who rely on screen readers to access web content.

8. **Complex Captchas:** Captchas and other verification mechanisms that rely solely on visual challenges can be inaccessible to users with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. Providing alternative methods for verification, such as audio captchas or accessible alternatives, is essential.

9. **Inaccessible Rich Media:** Content presented using technologies like Flash or Silverlight may not be accessible to users with disabilities, as these technologies may not be compatible with assistive technologies like screen readers.

10. **Unclear Link Text:** Links with ambiguous or non-descriptive link text (e.g., "click here" or "read more") can make it difficult for users to understand the purpose or destination of the link, particularly for users who navigate using screen readers.

Addressing these common accessibility barriers is essential for ensuring that websites are inclusive and accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. By implementing best practices for web accessibility, developers can create websites that provide a positive and meaningful user experience for everyone.