A man in California is about to receive a large sum of money after winning a lawsuit against Starbucks. Last Friday, March 14, a jury in Los Angeles County ruled that the famous coffee company must pay $50 million to a delivery driver who suffered severe burns after spilling a hot drink on himself at a drive-thru in California.
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“The jury’s verdict is a decisive step in holding Starbucks accountable for its blatant negligence towards customer safety and its refusal to accept responsibility,” stated Nick Rowley, one of the plaintiff’s attorneys, in a statement quoted by AP.
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What happened to the man who won the lawsuit against Starbucks?
According to court documents obtained by AP, the plaintiff, Michael García, had to undergo multiple surgeries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures on his genitals, after a boiling tea fell on him on February 8, 2020.
García was permanently disfigured and claims that the incident has not only caused him irreversible physical damage, but has also transformed his emotional and work life. His lawyers argued that the injuries were the result of Starbucks' negligence, as an employee did not properly place the drink on the carry tray, allowing it to spill on him moments after he picked it up.
Rowley emphasized that the case is not only seeking justice for García, but also sending a clear message to the food industry about the importance of ensuring consumer safety when handling hot products or any other type of hazards that may arise from their products.
Starbucks, in response, issued a statement expressing solidarity with Michael García, although plans to appeal the ruling, as the company ensures that it has always prioritized the safety of its customers and employees, although it acknowledged that this case raises important questions about the protocols in its stores.