LA Man Wins $50M After Starbucks Tea Burns and Disfigures Genitals

California (Thechieftainspear) – A California man has been awarded $50 million after suffering catastrophic burns when a scalding hot tea spilled onto his lap at a Starbucks drive-thru.

Michael Garcia, a delivery driver, sustained life-altering injuries on February 8, 2020, after purchasing a venti-sized hot tea. According to his legal team, the drink was not properly secured in the takeout tray, causing it to spill onto his groin area as soon as he received it. The burns were so severe that Garcia required multiple skin grafts and other medical procedures.

Garcia sued Starbucks, arguing that the company was responsible for the mishap due to its failure to ensure the drink was safely placed in the carrier. On Friday, a Los Angeles County jury sided with him, determining that Starbucks was negligent and should compensate him for the extensive harm he suffered.

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Following the verdict, Garcia’s attorney, Nick Rowley, emphasized the importance of the ruling, stating, “This decision is a necessary step in holding Starbucks accountable for its disregard of customer safety.”

Starbucks, however, disagreed with the jury’s ruling. In a statement, the company said, “We do not believe we were at fault in this incident and find the damages awarded to be excessive. Our commitment to the highest safety standards in our stores remains unchanged.”

The case draws comparisons to the well-known 1990s lawsuit against McDonald’s, in which a New Mexico woman, Stella Liebeck, suffered third-degree burns from hot coffee and was initially awarded nearly $3 million. That amount was later reduced significantly by the court.

Whether Starbucks will appeal the decision remains uncertain, but the ruling serves as a reminder of the legal and financial consequences companies may face when customer safety is at risk .

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Layla Hango

Layla Hango is a dedicated author at The Chieftain Spear, where she delves into stories that highlight cultural richness, social issues, and community empowerment. With a passion for storytelling that inspires and informs, Layla brings a fresh perspective to her writing. Her work resonates with readers seeking meaningful dialogue and a deeper understanding of diverse experiences. Through her articles, Layla aims to spark positive change and celebrate the strength of collective voices.

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