Starbucks to Pay Man $50 Million in Damages After Spilled Hot Tea Causes Permanent Injury

A California delivery driver has won millions in a lawsuit against Starbucks after a piping hot beverage fell on his lap, causing third-degree burns.

NBC News reports that a jury agreed the coffee chain was negligent in the incident. Michael Garcia was awarded $50 million in damages after a scalding cup of tea permanently disfigured his penis. 

“No amount of money can undo the permanent catastrophic harm he has suffered, but this jury verdict is a critical step in holding Starbucks accountable for flagrant disregard for customer safety and failure to accept responsibility,” Garcia’s attorney, Nick Rowley said in a statement, adding that Garcia’s “life has been forever changed.”

Starbucks is looking to appeal the decision, saying that it has “always been committed to the highest safety standards in our stores.”

The statement continued, “We sympathize with Mr. Garcia, but we disagree with the jury’s decision that we were at fault for this incident and believe the damages awarded to be excessive.”

The incident happened on Feb. 8, 2020, at a Los Angeles Starbucks location. Garcia reportedly picked up three venti “medicine ball” teas at the drive-thru for a Postmates delivery. Footage shows that when an employee gave him the cardboard carrier with the drinks, one of the cups fell onto his lap and spilled.

Garcia’s lawyers claimed that the Starbucks employee “failed to properly secure that drink in the carrier,” NBC writes.

Garcia’s penis, groin, and inner thighs endured third-degree burns. According to his legal team, he had to have two skin grafts, and any friction to the area is still painful for him.