Los Angeles, CA — A California jury has ordered Starbucks to pay $50 million to a delivery driver who suffered severe burns after a tea purchased from one of its locations spilled on him. The verdict, delivered on Thursday, concluded a legal battle that highlights potential safety hazards associated with hot beverages served at popular coffee chains.
Tommy Piluyev was injured in October 2018 while at the drive-thru of a Starbucks in Roseville, northeast of Sacramento. As he received two hot teas from a barista, the lid on one of the cups unexpectedly came off, resulting in near-boiling water pouring onto his stomach, hands, and thighs. According to Piluyev’s lawyers, the injuries sustained were severe, requiring hospitalization and extensive medical treatment.
Due to the spill, Piluyev underwent multiple surgeries and sustained second to third-degree burns, which significantly affected his ability to use his hands for an extended period. His legal team argued that his injuries had a profound impact on his quality of life, impairing his daily activities and his ability to play the piano, an activity he previously enjoyed.
The lawsuit contended that the design of the cups and the method by which they were sealed posed a risk to customers, a factor that contributed to the jury’s decision. Legal representatives for Piluyev emphasized that the severity of the burns and the lasting impact on his life justified the substantial compensation awarded by the jury.
Starbucks, on their part, argued during the trial that the incident was accidental and not indicative of a broader issue with their product safety standards. The company stated it prioritizes the safety of its customers and adheres to all industry guidelines concerning product safety and quality.
This case sheds light on previous incidents involving hot beverage spills at various coffee shops, raising questions about the safety practices in place and the responsibility of businesses to ensure their products are safe for consumption. It underscores the potential legal and financial repercussions that can arise from what may seem like everyday accidents.
The verdict comes at a time when public vigilance about consumer safety is particularly high, and businesses may face increased scrutiny over their operational practices and safety standards.
For further details on this case or similar incidents, concerns can be addressed by contacting the Public Law Library via email at [email protected].
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