Starbucks Faces $50M Verdict Over Delivery Driver's Severe Tea Burns

A Los Angeles jury found Starbucks negligent for failing to secure a hot tea, causing life-altering injuries to Michael Garcia, who plans to use the award to address his extensive medical needs.

Michael Garcia, a Postmates driver, was awarded $50 million after suffering third-degree burns from a spilled Starbucks tea in 2020.
The incident occurred when a barista failed to properly secure a venti-sized tea in a takeaway tray at a Los Angeles drive-thru.
Garcia underwent multiple skin grafts and continues to suffer permanent disfigurement and pain from the injuries.
Starbucks plans to appeal the verdict, arguing the damages are excessive and maintaining its commitment to safety standards.
The case has reignited discussions about corporate accountability and parallels the infamous McDonald’s coffee lawsuit of the 1990s.