A Detroit-based rapper is taking legal action against Lyft after claiming a driver refused to let her in his car due to her weight, fearing she would “burst his tires.”
Dajua Blanding, also known by her stage name Dank Demoss, says she was left humiliated after the driver locked his doors and attempted to drive off when he saw her approaching his vehicle.
Locked Out Over Weight Concerns
According to the lawsuit filed in Michigan’s Wayne County Circuit Court, the incident occurred on January 18 when Blanding ordered a Lyft ride to her cousin’s house for a football watch party.
When the driver arrived, he allegedly refused to unlock the doors, telling her she was “too big” and that his car’s tires wouldn’t support her weight.
Blanding, who recorded the exchange, can be heard insisting, “I can fit in this car.” The driver, however, allegedly responded, “Believe me, you can’t.”
After being denied the ride, she was unable to attend her cousin’s party and decided to take legal action.
“This Is Discrimination”
Blanding and her attorneys argue that weight discrimination is illegal in Michigan, just like race or religious discrimination.
“Refusing someone transportation due to their weight is no different than refusing someone based on their race or religion,” her lawyer John Marko said.
Fellow attorney Zach Runyan added, “Imagine if she was stranded in a dangerous situation. This could have ended even worse than it did.”
The lawsuit seeks damages for stress, humiliation, and emotional distress, along with attorney fees.
Mixed Reactions Online
After Blanding shared a video of the incident on Instagram, reactions were split.
Some people sided with the driver, arguing that he was simply following safety regulations and that Blanding should have booked a larger vehicle like a Lyft XL.
“It’s against the law to overload a car. The driver was polite, explained his reasons, and even apologized,” one commenter wrote.
Others, however, backed Blanding, agreeing that the refusal was discriminatory and that she should have been treated with respect.
Lyft Responds
Lyft has since issued a statement saying, “We unequivocally condemn all forms of discrimination. Our community guidelines prohibit harassment or discrimination of any kind.”
As the case heads to court, it raises broader discussions about weight discrimination in public services and whether companies should have clearer policies on accommodating plus-size passengers.
