Starbucks is facing two new lawsuits over spilled hot drinks, just weeks after a court ordered the coffee giant to pay $79 million to a man who was injured by a cup of tea. Both suits were lodged in California and seek damages over scalding liquids spilled on customers at drive-throughs.
One case involved Sabrina Michelle Hermes, who suffered severe injuries when hot liquid spilled into her lap at a Starbucks branch in Norwalk. The lawsuit claimed that a poorly secured cup led to the accident, causing burns on her legs, hip, knee, and feet. Starbucks plans to contest the claim, asserting its commitment to safety standards.
In a separate incident, Ernesto Vladimir Sanchez Avendano faced severe burns and nerve damage after a drink spilled onto his lap at a North Hollywood drive-through. His lawsuit alleged negligence on Starbucks’ part for not properly securing the lid. Starbucks awaits being served with the suit to review Mr. Avendano’s claims.
Last month, a Los Angeles jury ruled in favor of delivery driver Michael Garcia, awarding him $79 million for burns sustained from a spilled drink. The case highlighted the need for fast-food companies to ensure proper handling of hot beverages to prevent injuries.
These lawsuits against Starbucks echo a landmark legal ruling in 1994 involving McDonald’s, where a customer was awarded millions after spilling hot coffee on herself. Such cases have prompted discussions on tort law reforms in the US, emphasizing the responsibility of companies to prioritize customer safety.
Starbucks’ ongoing legal challenges underscore the importance of stringent safety protocols in the food and beverage industry. As consumers seek accountability from corporations, incidents like these serve as reminders for businesses to prioritize customer well-being and implement preventive measures to avoid accidents.
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