A Detroit-based rapper, known as Dank Demoss, has filed a lawsuit against Lyft, alleging discrimination after a driver refused to provide her a ride, claiming she was “too big” to fit in his vehicle.
The artist, whose real name is Dajua Blanding, shared a viral video on Instagram documenting the incident, which took place earlier this month. The footage shows the Lyft driver declining to take her and explaining that his car was too small to accommodate her.
Demoss, 36, has now retained attorneys Jonathan Marko and Zach Runyan to take legal action against Lyft, citing discrimination and emotional distress.
What Happened? Inside the Alleged Discriminatory Incident
On January 19, 2025, Demoss requested a Lyft ride to take her to a Detroit Lions watch party. However, when the driver arrived, he refused to transport her, insisting that his car was too compact for her size.
In the recorded video, the driver can be heard stating:
“I got no space at all, my car is small.”
To which Demoss firmly responded:
“I can fit in this car.”
The driver, however, continued to refuse service, replying:
“No, believe me, you can’t. So… I’m sorry.”
Demoss then asked about her payment, prompting the driver to assure her that he would cancel the ride, ensuring she was not charged.
At one point in the conversation, the driver also mentioned his “very tired tires”, an explanation that further frustrated Demoss.
“What do I have to do with your tires?” she asked, challenging the rationale behind his refusal.
Feeling humiliated and hurt, Demoss decided to take legal action, claiming the incident was not just about a denied ride—but about broader discrimination against plus-sized individuals.
Legal Action: Rapper Files Discrimination Lawsuit Against Lyft
Following the incident, Demoss enlisted two attorneys, Jonathan Marko and Zach Runyan, to sue Lyft for discrimination.
Speaking to Fox 2 Detroit, Demoss opened up about how the experience deeply affected her.
“I’ve been in cars smaller than that. I just want them to know that it hurt my feelings.”
Her attorney, Jonathan Marko, strongly condemned the driver’s actions, stating:
“I knew that it was illegal, and I knew that it was wrong. It would be no different than a driver pulling up and saying, ‘I don’t want to have Black people in my car,’ or ‘I don’t want to have Christians in my car.’ Under the law, it’s the same.”
Lyft Responds to the Allegations
In response to the lawsuit and viral backlash, Lyft issued a public statement, emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity and respect within its rideshare community.
“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.”
Additionally, Lyft’s official social media account directly addressed the incident in the comments of Demoss’s post, stating:
“We’re disheartened to look at this driver’s unacceptable behavior. Please DM us at your earliest convenience for additional support. We’d like to address this as soon as possible.”
Despite this official statement, many social media users remain skeptical, questioning whether Lyft will take meaningful action against the driver involved.
Social Media Reacts: Outrage and Calls for Accountability
Demoss’s Instagram video quickly went viral, amassing thousands of comments and reactions from both supporters and critics of Lyft.
One commenter criticized the driver’s shifting explanations, writing:
“He messed up when he said to order an XL and when he said his tires were too tired. I’m disappointed in @lyft.”
Another user called for swift legal action, simply commenting:
“SUE.”
The incident has sparked widespread debate about weight discrimination in public services, with many advocating for greater protections for plus-sized individuals in rideshare services.
A Larger Conversation: Discrimination in Rideshare Services
This lawsuit against Lyft comes at a time when rideshare companies are facing increasing scrutiny over discriminatory practices.
While discrimination based on weight is not explicitly illegal in all states, many argue that denying service based on body size is inherently unjust and comparable to other forms of bias, such as racial or religious discrimination.
Attorney Jonathan Marko reinforced this perspective, asserting that size-based discrimination should not be tolerated in any capacity.
“Everyone deserves equal access to services, regardless of their body type. We will fight to ensure that companies like Lyft are held accountable when their drivers engage in discriminatory behavior.”
What’s Next for the Case?
With legal proceedings now in motion, Demoss and her attorneys are preparing to hold Lyft accountable for the alleged discriminatory incident.
While Lyft has responded publicly, it remains unclear whether the driver involved will face disciplinary action or whether policy changes will be implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As this case unfolds, it may set a precedent for how rideshare companies handle discrimination claims and whether legal protections for plus-sized individuals in public services will be expanded.
Final Thoughts: A Case That Could Change Rideshare Policies
The lawsuit filed by Dank Demoss against Lyft is more than just a legal dispute—it highlights a broader issue of inclusivity and discrimination in the gig economy and transportation industry.
Whether this case results in financial compensation, policy changes, or both, it has already ignited a national conversation about how plus-sized individuals are treated in rideshare services.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Detroit rapper Dank Demoss is suing Lyft after a driver refused to transport her, citing her size as the reason.
✔ Demoss recorded the encounter, which went viral, prompting widespread criticism of Lyft.
✔ Her legal team argues that this case is a clear example of discrimination under the law.
✔ Lyft has publicly condemned discrimination but has not detailed any direct action against the driver.
✔ The case may set an important precedent for inclusivity in the rideshare industry.
As the lawsuit progresses, many will be watching closely to see how Lyft responds—and whether this case will lead to tangible changes in the industry.
What Are Your Thoughts?
Do you believe rideshare companies should do more to prevent size-based discrimination? Have you or someone you know experienced a similar situation?
Sophia Rivers is an experienced News Content Editor with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for delivering accurate and engaging news stories. At TheArchivists, she specializes in curating, editing, and presenting news content that informs and resonates with a global audience.
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