Jury Awards $50 Million to Delivery Driver After Severe Burns from Starbucks Tea Incident

A jury in Los Angeles awarded delivery driver Michael Garcia $50 million after he suffered severe burns from a hot tea spill at Starbucks. This case highlights significant issues around safety and customer service at major coffee chains.

The incident took place in February 2020 when Garcia, working as a Postmates driver, ordered three venti-sized hot teas. According to Garcia’s attorneys, the barista failed to secure one of the cups in the drink carrier. Moments after receiving the tray, the cup tipped over and spilled scalding tea on him, leading to third-degree burns on his groin and thighs. He was rushed to the emergency room for treatment.

Starbucks disagreed with the jury’s verdict and plans to appeal. A spokesperson stated, "We sympathize with Mr. Garcia, but we disagree with the jury’s decision that we were at fault for this incident and believe the damages awarded to be excessive." The company emphasized its commitment to safety, especially regarding hot drinks.

Garcia’s attorney, Nick Rowley, expressed that the incident profoundly changed Garcia’s life. He mentioned that while the verdict cannot reverse the harm done, it holds Starbucks accountable for not prioritizing customer safety.

This case isn’t isolated. Over the years, various fast-food and beverage chains have faced similar lawsuits. A 2016 study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that burn cases from hot beverages are quite common, leading to numerous court cases every year. This particular incident serves as a reminder of the need for strict safety measures in the food industry.

Consumer reactions have also been notable. On social media, many expressed support for Garcia while criticizing Starbucks for its handling of the situation. This reflects a growing trend where customers expect transparency and accountability from brands, especially when it comes to safety.

As the legal proceedings continue, this case may set a precedent for how large companies address customer safety and manage accountability for incidents that occur in their establishments. For more on similar safety violations and consumer rights, you can check the National Consumer Law Center.

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