Overview

• Michael Garcia, a Postmates driver, was awarded $50 million after a hot tea spilled on his lap, causing third-degree burns and permanent injuries.
• The incident occurred at a Los Angeles Starbucks drive-through in February 2020, when a barista failed to properly secure the lid of a venti-sized drink in a tray.
• Garcia's injuries required multiple surgeries, including skin grafts, and resulted in lasting disfigurement and nerve damage to his groin area.
• Starbucks plans to appeal the verdict, stating it disagrees with the jury's decision and considers the damages awarded to be excessive.
• The case recalls other high-profile lawsuits over hot beverage burns, including a 1994 McDonald’s coffee case that initially awarded $3 million in damages.