Sun Mar 16 05:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Starbucks Ordered to Pay $50 Million in Hot Coffee Spill Case
**Los Angeles, CA** – A Los Angeles County jury has ordered Starbucks to pay $50 million to a California man who suffered severe burns after a hot drink spilled on him at a drive-through. Michael Garcia, the plaintiff, was injured in February 2020 when a venti-sized drink, improperly secured in a takeout tray, spilled onto his genitals, causing permanent disfigurement requiring skin grafts and other procedures.
Garcia’s lawyers argued that a Starbucks barista failed to properly secure the drink, breaching the company’s duty of care. The jury agreed, finding Starbucks liable for the incident. While three jurors dissented, advocating for a $125 million award, the majority verdict resulted in the $50 million payout.
Starbucks maintains its commitment to high safety standards in handling hot beverages and disputes the jury’s finding of fault. The company stated that it plans to appeal the decision, citing Garcia’s alleged negligence. Starbucks previously offered a pre-trial settlement of $3 million, later increasing the offer to $30 million, which Garcia rejected due to the company’s refusal to apologize and revise its safety protocols. The company did not immediately respond to a request for further comment. This case highlights concerns about both corporate liability and the safety of hot beverage dispensing practices in drive-through settings.
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