A Los Angeles driver has won $50 million from Starbucks after sustaining severe burns from spilled tea at one of its drive-thru locations. The jury's ruling from March 13, 2025, has gained significant attention as it addresses customer safety standards at the coffee giant.
Michael Garcia, the plaintiff and Postmates driver, was working on February 8, 2020, when he arrived at Starbucks to pick up three venti-sized drinks. According to court records, the barista failed to securely fasten one of the lids, resulting in catastrophic injuries when the lid came loose and scalding-hot tea spilled directly onto Garcia's lap.
"This jury verdict is a catastrophic step toward holding Starbucks accountable for flagrant disregard for customer safety and failure to accept responsibility," said Nick Rowley, Garcia's attorney.
Garcia suffered third-degree burns to his genitals, groin, and inner thighs, necessitating multiple skin grafts and medical procedures. His lawyer elaborated on the serious effects of the injury, noting, "Michael Garcia’s life has been forever changed." He continues to live with significant pain and permanent disfigurement.
The incident, captured on security cameras, shows Garcia's immediate distress after the spill. His injuries have altered intimate aspects of his life, with Rowley emphasizing how much pain Garcia now experiences during intimate moments. "One of the most pleasurable experiences has been transformed to pain," he remarked.
Initially, Garcia sought $120 million from Starbucks, whereas the coffee chain proposed settlement amounts of $3 million, later raising it to $30 million. Garcia rejected these offers, insisting on changes to Starbucks' hot drink policy to prevent similar incidents. He wanted Starbucks to remind staff of the necessity to double-check drink lids before handing them over to customers.
Starbucks has publicly disagreed with the jury’s decision, expressing empathy for Garcia but feeling the damages awarded were excessive. Jaci Anderson, Starbucks Director of Corporate Communications, stated, "We disagree with the jury's decision and believe the damages awarded are excessive. We have always been committed to the highest safety standards, including with hot drinks." The company now plans to appeal the jury's verdict.
This legal case is part of broader scrutiny of how businesses handle hot beverages. Similar incidents have surfaced, echoing past lawsuits against other fast-food chains. A notable case from the 1990s involved Stella Liebeck, who received nearly $3 million after being severely burned by hot coffee from McDonald's. Although her award was later reduced, it sparked significant discussions about customer safety and corporate responsibility.
Garcia’s case against Starbucks has resurfaced concerns over industry practices surrounding hot drinks. While Garcia's story highlights the dangers of negligence, it also raises questions about how food service employees are trained to handle potentially unsafe situations.
Following Garcia’s ordeal, there is speculation about how Starbucks and similar companies will modify their operational protocols to avoid future legal repercussions. Observers are watching closely to see if this case will prompt other companies to reevaluate their safety measures when servicing customers with hot beverages. With growing customer awareness and public sentiment being highly sensitive to safety issues, businesses may find themselves under more scrutiny.
The considerable award from the jury indicates not only the severity of Garcia’s injuries but also the potential for future claims if companies do not prioritize consumer safety. The outcome of this case could have lasting impacts on how restaurant chains and fast-food establishments manage safety protocols related to hot drinks.
Starbucks, which promotes its brands through positive customer experiences, now faces the challenge of restoring consumer confidence as they navigate through criticism and legal debates. How they choose to address these safety concerns may define their corporate image moving forward.
The Garcia case serves as both a stark reminder and cautionary tale of the serious consequences arising from negligence within the food and beverage industry, illustrating the need for rigorous adherence to safety standards at all customer touchpoints.
