A Los Angeles jury awarded $50 million to delivery driver Michael Garcia, who suffered severe burns from spilled hot tea due to improperly secured lids at Starbucks. The incident required multiple surgeries and caused permanent disfigurement. Garcia rejected an earlier settlement from Starbucks that included an apology and policy changes, opting instead for a trial. The coffee company plans to appeal the jury's decision and claims the damages are excessive, reflecting ongoing debates about corporate accountability and consumer safety.
On March 14, a jury awarded $50 million in damages to delivery driver Michael Garcia after he suffered severe burn injuries from spilled hot tea due to improperly secured lids.
Garcia testified that the incident led to 'horrific burn injuries that required multiple surgeries' and 'permanent disfigurement' to his groin area, drastically affecting his life.
Starbucks initially offered Garcia $3 million, then $30 million, contingent on a company apology and policy adjustments, but they could not reach an agreement.
Despite the ruling, Starbucks plans to appeal, stating, 'We disagree with the jury's decision that we were at fault for this incident and believe the damages awarded to be excessive.'
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