Starbucks Ordered to Pay $50 Million to Driver Injured by Coffee Spill

In February 2020, a Los Angeles Postmates delivery driver suffered life-altering injuries when a poorly secured Starbucks coffee caused catastrophic burns. His suit led to a landmark $50 million legal verdict imposed against Starbucks by a jury.

What happened? 

On February 8, 2020, the plaintiff, a Postmates delivery driver, visited a Starbucks drive-thru in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, to pick up an order of three “Medicine Ball” drinks. Medicine Balls are a mixture of steamed lemonade and two types of tea. Starbucks employees placed the drinks in a cardboard carrier but allegedly failed to secure one of the cups properly. This triggered an injury event that was catastrophic for the plaintiff.

The unsecured cup tipped over shortly after the plaintiff placed the drinks in his car. He spilled the 180℉ – 190℉ drink directly on his lap. The extremely hot liquid caused severe burns. Surveillance footage from inside the Starbucks showed that an employee failed to secure the cup properly, resulting in burns to the plaintiff’s private regions. This mistake cost Starbucks $50 million in damages.

Injury and damages

 The plaintiff’s injuries were substantial and catastrophic. He sustained third-degree burns to his genitals, groin, and inner thighs thanks to the scalding tea that spilled in his lap. He required two complex skin grafts and sustained permanent nerve damage. Paramedics rushed him to the emergency room, where doctors confirmed that his burns were severe. The hospital staff then transferred him to the Grossman Burn Center for specialized treatment. He required two skin grafts on his penis.

As a result of the burn injuries, the plaintiff sustained permanent nerve damage which led to excruciating pain from any form of friction, particularly to his most sensitive areas. His penis became permanently discolored. There was a significant reduction in length and girth. He was left unable to achieve or sustain a complete erection.

As a result, the plaintiff suffered profound psychological distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Further, the injury severely impacted his self-esteem and his ability to enjoy life. It fundamentally changed his sense of self.

His bodily injuries drastically reduced his quality of life. The plaintiff was left to suffer from both physical and emotional injuries. Even five years later, the plaintiff continues to suffer from substantial pain, sexual dysfunction, and disfigurement caused by the burns.

Are businesses responsible for coffee spills? 

Sometimes. It depends on the case. In the aforementioned case, the plaintiff was able to establish that the barista had negligently secured the lid to the coffee cup, resulting in his injury. Establishing negligence is fundamental to any personal injury case. This case had a smoking gun. The barista was caught on camera failing to secure the lid to the cup.

Talk to an Oakland, CA, Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Venardi Zurada represents the interests of injured plaintiffs in personal injury lawsuits filed against negligent defendants. We serve the Bay Area from our office locations in Oakland and Walnut Creek. Call our Oakland personal injury lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin investigating your case immediately.