Starbucks Ordered to Pay $50M to Delivery Driver Burned by Hot Tea

A California jury awarded Michael Garcia $50 million after a Starbucks drink spilled, causing severe burns and permanent injuries.

Michael Garcia, a Postmates delivery driver, suffered third-degree burns and permanent disfigurement after a Starbucks tea spilled on his lap in February 2020.
Garcia's lawsuit alleged that a Starbucks employee failed to properly secure the drink in a takeaway tray, leading to the incident.
The jury deliberated for just 40 minutes before awarding Garcia $50 million in damages for the life-changing injuries he sustained.
Starbucks had previously offered Garcia $3 million, later raising the offer to $30 million with conditions, but the case proceeded to trial after terms were not agreed upon.
Starbucks has stated it disagrees with the verdict, considers the damages excessive, and plans to appeal the decision.