A Starbucks customer was awarded $50 million by a jury after suffering severe burns from a spilled cup of hot tea. The lawsuit claimed the company failed in its duty to serve beverages safely, leading to life-altering injuries for the victim.
The incident occurred when a Starbucks employee handed the customer a cup of tea with a loose lid. As the customer attempted to take the drink, the lid popped off, spilling scalding liquid onto their body. The burns required extensive medical treatment, and the victim endured significant pain, emotional distress, and permanent scarring.
Negligence in Beverage Handling
The lawsuit argued that Starbucks employees failed to properly secure the lid, a simple step that could have prevented the accident. The case highlighted a pattern of similar incidents where hot beverages caused serious harm.
A key argument was that Starbucks, as a company serving millions of hot drinks daily, should implement strict safety procedures. The plaintiff’s legal team presented evidence that other customers had reported burns from unsecured lids or defective cups.
$50 Million Verdict Reflects Severity of Injuries
After reviewing testimony and medical evidence, the jury awarded the victim $50 million in damages. This amount factored in:
- Medical expenses for immediate and long-term treatment
- Pain and suffering from physical and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to permanent injuries
- Punitive damages to hold Starbucks accountable
Large verdicts in burn injury cases are not uncommon. In a well-known case against McDonald’s, a jury initially awarded $2.86 million to a woman who suffered third-degree burns from hot coffee. Studies show that beverage temperatures above 160°F can cause serious burns within seconds, and many fast-food chains serve drinks even hotter.
Starbucks Plans to Appeal the Decision
Following the verdict, Starbucks announced plans to challenge the ruling. The company claimed the damages were excessive and stated that it maintains high safety standards in handling hot beverages.
Despite these claims, safety experts argue that companies must take greater precautions to prevent injuries. Some coffee chains have adopted spill-proof lids and double-cup designs to reduce the risk of burns. However, lawsuits continue to emerge, suggesting that many businesses still do not prioritize customer safety.
Burn Injuries From Hot Beverages Are More Common Than People Think
Cases like this highlight a widespread issue in the food and beverage industry. Many people underestimate the risks associated with hot drinks, but data shows that these injuries happen frequently:
- More than 80,000 people visit emergency rooms annually for scald burns, with many caused by hot liquids
- Coffee and tea served at 180°F or higher can cause third-degree burns in as little as five seconds
- A study found that nearly 70% of hot beverage burn victims are adults who were simply handling their drink when it spilled
Given the potential for severe injury, businesses have a responsibility to serve hot drinks safely and train employees to prevent spills.
Legal Action Can Hold Companies Accountable
This case reinforces the importance of holding companies accountable when negligence leads to serious injuries. Burn victims often face expensive medical treatments, lost wages, and long-term pain. Legal action can provide compensation for these losses and push businesses to improve safety measures.
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries from a spilled hot beverage, you may have legal options. Contact Us Today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your rights.
Contact MyNJInjuryLawyer Howard P. Lesnik
I have handled several burn cases against restaurants recently. I am very familiar with making claims against the stores, its employees, owners, and franchisees.
If you or a loved one suffered a burn injury in an accident in NJ, you should contact an attorney familiar with handling these claims. An experienced NJ Injury Lawyer will know how to obtain medical records, videos, photographs, experts, locate witnesses and contact the insurance company so you can make a claim for your injuries.
My NJ Injury Lawyer Howard P. Lesnik, Esq. offers complimentary strategy sessions to address any issue or questions you may have for your injury claim in NJ.
Please contact NJ Injury Lawyer Howard Lesnik, Esq., immediately if you were involved in an accident. I personally handle NJ personal injury cases on a regular basis. Please contact me now by email, by phoning 908.264.7701, or by completing the form to the right to schedule your complimentary 30-minute strategy session. Call me direct and I will answer 5 questions that you have about your potential claim.
