A California jury has ordered Starbucks to pay $50 million to a customer who suffered severe burns from a spilled hot beverage at a drive-thru in 2020.
Michael Garcia, the plaintiff, underwent skin grafts and other medical procedures after the incident, which resulted in burns to his genitals. His attorneys argued that a Starbucks barista failed to properly secure one of the drinks in a takeout tray, causing it to spill and cause serious injuries.
Garcia’s lawsuit accused Starbucks of breaching its duty of care, claiming that the injuries led to permanent disfigurement. A Los Angeles County jury ruled in his favor, awarding him the multimillion-dollar payout.
"This jury verdict is a critical step in holding Starbucks accountable for flagrant disregard for customer safety and failure to accept responsibility," Garcia’s attorney told the Associated Press. Attorney Nicholas Rowley also told The Daily Journal that three jurors dissented, believing the award should have been $125 million.
Starbucks has already said it plans to appeal the decision.
“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 said in a statement, asserting that it remains "committed to the highest safety standards" in handling hot beverages. Starbucks also argued that Garcia failed to exercise ordinary care in handling the drinks, contributing to the spill.
Before the trial, Starbucks had offered settlements of $3 million and later $30 million, both of which Garcia declined. Rowley stated that Garcia was willing to settle if the company issued an apology and revised its safety protocols, but Starbucks refused.
