Starbucks ordered to pay $50 million after hot drink burns driver: Legal settlement details

Michael Garcia, a Postmates delivery driver, was awarded $50 million in a negligence lawsuit against Starbucks after suffering severe burns from a hot drink. This case has garnered attention due to the ongoing issue of burn injuries caused by hot beverages in U.S. establishments, echoing similar high-profile incidents in recent years.

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Starbuck's hot tea incident

Garcia was collecting three venti-sized hot teas from a Starbucks drive-thru when the incident occurred. According to Garcia’s attorney, the barista failed to properly secure one of the drinks in the carrier, leading to the drink spilling directly into Garcia’s lap. The resulting burns were severe, causing third-degree burns to his groin, inner thighs, and genital area.

As a result of the incident, Garcia required hospitalization and multiple skin grafts. Five years later, he continues to endure the physical, psychological, and emotional effects of the burns. His legal team highlighted the long-lasting disfigurement, pain, and dysfunction caused by the accident, which has had a profound impact on his quality of life.

Previous lawsuits involving burns from hot beverages

This case follows a history of high-profile lawsuits related to burns from hot drinks. Notably, in the 1990s, a 79-year-old woman received nearly $3 million after suffering burns from a cup of McDonald’s coffee. Similarly, earlier this year, Bill Miller Bar-B-Q was ordered to pay $2.8 million to Genesis Monita, a 19-year-old who suffered second-degree burns from barbecue sauce.

Starbucks' response to the lawsuit

Starbucks initially offered a $30 million settlement but insisted on confidentiality, which Garcia’s legal team rejected. They were willing to settle for the same amount, provided Starbucks agreed to implement policy changes to prevent similar incidents in the future. Starbucks has disputed the verdict, calling the damages excessive. The company also emphasized its commitment to the highest safety standards in handling hot drinks.

Garcia’s legal team, Trial Lawyers for Justice, praised him for his courage in standing up to Starbucks. In a statement shared on social media, they criticized Starbucks for attempting to avoid responsibility for five years, even throughout the trial, and for using “frivolous defenses” and “victim-blaming” tactics.

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Starbucks plans to appeal the verdict

While Starbucks has expressed sympathy for Garcia, the company plans to appeal the verdict. It remains uncertain how the appeal process will unfold and what impact it may have on future cases involving hot beverage burns.