Starbucks has been ordered to pay $50 million to a California man who suffered severe burns after a scalding drink spilled on him at a drive-thru.
On Friday, March 14, a Los Angeles County jury ruled in favor of Michael Garcia, a delivery driver who sustained third-degree burns and permanent injuries after a Starbucks barista allegedly handed him a to-go tray with an unsecured lid. The verdict in the $50 million Starbucks lawsuit highlights concerns over customer safety at the coffee giant’s locations.
The Incident Behind the $50 Million Starbucks Lawsuit
The incident occurred on February 8, 2020, at a Los Angeles Starbucks, where Garcia was picking up three Venti-sized “medicine ball” teas. According to court records, one of the drinks was improperly placed in the carrier, causing the lid to pop off and spill steaming liquid onto Garcia’s lap. Surveillance footage presented in court showed the drink sitting askew moments before the accident.
As a result, Garcia suffered third-degree burns and had to undergo two skin grafts. His attorney, Nick Rowley, stated that the injury caused permanent damage to Garcia’s genitals, making intimacy painful and altering his quality of life.
Jury’s Decision and Starbucks’ Response
The jury deliberated for just 40 minutes before awarding Garcia $50 million in damages. While Starbucks expressed sympathy, the company disagreed with the verdict and called the damages “excessive,” announcing plans to appeal.
Rowley, who initially sought $120 million in damages, emphasized that the verdict was a crucial step in holding Starbucks accountable for what he described as a failure to prioritize customer safety.
The $50 million Starbucks lawsuit has sparked widespread discussions about corporate responsibility, with legal experts weighing in on whether the payout could set a precedent for similar cases.