D.C. Couple Files $60M Lawsuit Against Amazon and Delivery Service Following Accident
A D.C. couple has initiated a $60 million lawsuit against Amazon and a Maryland-based delivery service after a pedestrian accident left the woman with severe injuries, as captured in video footage obtained by the News4 I-Team.
The incident, which occurred on December 30 at the intersection of Cathedral Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue in Northwest Washington, shows Rita Iannazzi struck by a delivery driver while she was walking in a crosswalk. The driver, seen on dashcam footage eating at the time, collided with Iannazzi, resulting in multiple broken bones and necessitating 11 surgeries during her nearly two-month hospitalization.
Speaking exclusively to News4 on behalf of his wife, Gianfranco Mancini expressed anger and exhaustion, emphasizing the need for further surgeries and lifelong medical care for Iannazzi. Despite the truck displaying a “Prime” logo, indicating affiliation with Amazon, the driver was employed by a third-party delivery service partner (DSP), Orion’s Harp LLC.
Attorney Patrick Regan, representing the couple, criticized Amazon’s use of DSPs, alleging that the company seeks to evade responsibility by directing consumers to file claims with these entities, despite insufficient insurance coverage. Regan asserted that Amazon prioritizes delivery speed over driver safety, leading to potentially hazardous working conditions.
The lawsuit targets both Amazon and the DSP, alleging negligence and emphasizing the dangers posed by the pressure to meet delivery quotas. Mancini echoed these concerns, warning of future accidents if companies continue to prioritize speed over safety.
In response to inquiries, Amazon reiterated its commitment to safety, highlighting investments in technology and training to improve driver safety. However, the company has yet to comment specifically on the lawsuit.
The case underscores broader concerns surrounding gig economy practices and the accountability of companies like Amazon in ensuring the safety of their delivery workforce and the communities they serve.
