Starbucks Ordered to Pay $50 Million for Scalding Incident

A California jury has awarded $50 million to delivery driver Michael Garcia after he suffered severe burns and permanent disfigurement due to a hot tea spilling in his lap at a Starbucks drive-thru. The incident occurred on February 8, 2020, when a barista allegedly failed to secure the drink properly, causing it to topple over during the handoff. Garcia underwent multiple skin grafts and treatments to address his injuries, which his attorney described as life-changing. Starbucks plans to appeal the verdict, stating that it disagrees with the jury's decision and considers the damages excessive. This case has drawn comparisons to the notorious McDonald's coffee lawsuit from the 1990s, which involved similar claims of negligence regarding hot beverages. The jury's ruling reflects concerns about customer safety and accountability in the food service industry.