A Los Angeles County jury has awarded Michael Garcia, a delivery driver, $50 million in damages after he suffered severe burns from a hot Starbucks drink in a lawsuit claiming $50 Million from Starbucks.
The incident occurred on February 8, 2020, when Garcia picked up a tray of venti-sized Medicine Ball teas at a Starbucks drive-through in California. One of the drinks was not properly secured in the tray, causing it to spill onto his lap, leading to third-degree burns on his genitals, groin, and inner thighs.
Key Facts in $50 Million Starbucks Lawsuit
Incident Details: Garcia claimed that the tray of hot teas “caved in on itself” as he received it, with one drink falling onto his lap, followed by another. Both drinks spilled, causing their lids to pop off.
Injuries: Garcia underwent skin grafts and other medical procedures due to the severity of his burns. His injuries are described as permanent and life-changing.
Lawsuit Claims: The lawsuit alleged that a Starbucks barista negligently failed to secure one of the drinks in the tray, breaching the company’s duty of care.
Evidence: A store security video was presented as evidence, showing that one of the large drinks was improperly positioned in the tray when handed to Garcia.
Jury Verdict: The jury sided with Garcia, ordering Starbucks to pay $50 million for past and future damages, including pain and suffering.
Starbucks Response: The company expressed sympathy for Garcia but plans to appeal the verdict, stating that they disagree with the jury’s decision and believe the damages are excessive.
The case has highlighted the concerns over customer safety and the handling of hot beverages by major food and beverage chains. Although we are living in an era where countries and innocent people and other living organisms are burnt alive in wars as well.
It draws parallels with a famous 1990s case involving McDonald’s, where a woman was awarded nearly $3 million for burns from hot coffee. Starbucks maintains its commitment to high safety standards but contests the liability and the amount awarded
