$50 Million Verdict for Delivery Driver Burned by Starbucks Tea in Drive-Through Accident

Los Angeles, CA — A California jury awarded $50 million to a delivery driver who sustained severe burns from a Starbucks beverage. The incident, which resulted in permanent and considerable physical and psychological damage, took place at a drive-through in Los Angeles County on February 8, 2020. Michael Garcia, the driver, was collecting a venti-sized “Medicine Ball” tea, a popular off-menu item known for its meld of lemonade, green tea, peach tea, and honey, purported to alleviate symptoms of the common cold. The hot beverage spilled onto Garcia, leading to his hospitalization and necessitating multiple … Read more

$50 Million Verdict Against Starbucks After Scalding Incident Leaves Delivery Driver Seriously Injured

LOS ANGELES — A delivery driver received a $50 million court award after suffering severe burns from a spilled Starbucks beverage during a drive-thru transaction in California, according to court documents. Michael Garcia, the plaintiff, experienced significant injuries requiring skin grafts and surgeries primarily to his genital area after the incident with a venti-sized tea on Feb. 8, 2020. Garcia’s legal team stated he sustained permanent and altering injuries. In the legal filing, Garcia accused Starbucks of negligence, asserting that the employee handling his order failed to secure the hot beverage adequately in the takeaway … Read more

Delivery Driver Wins $50 Million After Scalding Incident at Starbucks Drive-Through

Los Angeles, CA – A California jury has awarded $50 million to Michael Garcia, a delivery driver who suffered severe burns after a tea drink from Starbucks spilled over him. The incident, which took place at a drive-through in February 2020, has led to significant injuries including the need for skin grafts and other medical procedures, specifically affecting his genitals. The court found on Friday that the Seattle-based coffee company was responsible for the mishap. According to Garcia’s legal team, the tea was not properly secured in the tray provided by a Starbucks employee, leading … Read more

$50 Million Verdict: Jury Sides with Driver in Starbucks Scalding Case

Los Angeles, CA – A Los Angeles jury has ruled in favor of a delivery driver who sustained burns from a scalding beverage at a Starbucks drive-through, awarding him a stunning $50 million. This decision, dated March 14, 2025, holds Starbucks entirely accountable for the mishap, clearing the plaintiff of any negligence. This case has cast a harsh light on the safety practices of the fast-food industry, particularly regarding the handling and serving temperatures of hot beverages. The verdict is one of the most significant financial judgments for a burn injury involving the coffee company … Read more