Starbucks Faces $50 Million Verdict Over Hot Tea Burn Incident
A Los Angeles court awarded the plaintiff $50 million for severe injuries, with Starbucks planning to appeal the decision, calling the damages excessive.
- The 2020 incident occurred at a California Starbucks drive-thru, where a hot tea spilled onto a customer due to an improperly secured cup.
- The plaintiff suffered third-degree burns to his groin, thighs, and penis, requiring multiple skin graft surgeries.
- The injuries have led to long-term consequences, including disfigurement, pain, functional impairments, and psychological trauma.
- The Los Angeles court's $50 million award has been described as a record-breaking compensation for such cases.
- Starbucks announced its intention to appeal, arguing that the damages awarded are disproportionate and excessive.