A Los Angeles County judge has ruled that Starbucks must pay $50 million in damages to Michael Garcia, who suffered severe burns from a hot tea spill during a drive-thru transaction in February 2020. Garcia, who was a 25-year-old postal driver at the time, claimed that two drinks fell from the cardboard carrier onto his lap, causing significant injuries, including burns to his genitals, which required multiple surgeries and resulted in permanent pain and sexual dysfunction.
Garcia accused Starbucks of negligence, pointing to a security video that allegedly showed one of the drinks lacking a secure lid during the handoff. In response to the verdict, Starbucks expressed sympathy for Garcia but plans to appeal, arguing that the damages are excessive and that they uphold high safety standards regarding hot beverages.
The case echoes the infamous 1994 McDonald’s coffee lawsuit, where a jury awarded significant damages to a woman burned by hot coffee. Garcia’s lawyer emphasized the need for accountability regarding customer safety, while Starbucks contended that Garcia shared some responsibility for the incident. Prior to the trial, Starbucks offered a $3 million settlement, followed by $30 million, contingent upon an apology and policy changes, both of which Garcia accepted, though Starbucks rejected the terms.
Additionally, a similar lawsuit was filed by Muriel Evans, claiming severe nerve damage from a coffee spill, with her trial scheduled for February 2026.
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