In a significant legal development, a Los Angeles County jury has ruled in favor of Michael Garcia, who sustained severe burns after ordering a venti-sized Medicine Ball from Starbucks on February 8, 2020. The incident has drawn attention to the popular off-menu beverage, which consists of steamed lemonade, hot water, Jade Citrus Mint green tea, Peach Tranquility tea, and honey. Internet users have often praised the drink as a remedy for cold symptoms. However, for Garcia, the experience turned into a life-altering ordeal.
In the negligence lawsuit against Starbucks, Garcia's attorneys argued that the coffee giant was responsible for the injuries he sustained. They claimed an employee failed to secure the hot beverage properly in a takeout tray, leading to the severe burns Garcia suffered. As a result of the incident, Garcia underwent skin grafts and other medical procedures on his genitals, with the burns causing permanent disfigurement and pain.
“After a hospitalization and multiple skin grafts, Michael has lived for five years with the disfigurement, pain, dysfunction and psychological harm caused by the burns,” Garcia’s attorneys stated.
The jury awarded Garcia an undisclosed amount under $600,000, despite Starbucks offering $30 million to settle the case confidentially. Garcia's legal team had expressed willingness to accept the $30 million without confidentiality if Starbucks agreed to publicly apologize and amend its safety policies.
“Starbucks offered $30m to settle but wanted confidentiality. We said we would settle for $30m without confidentiality and only if Starbucks agreed to publicly apologize and promise to change policy to prevent this from happening again,” remarked Garcia’s attorneys.
Starbucks has announced plans to appeal the jury's decision, maintaining their stance on the matter.
“We disagree with the jury’s decision that we were at fault for this incident and believe the damages awarded to be excessive,” a Starbucks representative stated.
Despite the legal victory for Garcia, his attorneys emphasized the broader implications of the ruling.
“This jury verdict is a critical step in holding Starbucks accountable for flagrant disregard for customer safety and failure to accept responsibility,” commented Nick Rowley.
The case has highlighted concerns about customer safety in handling hot beverages and has sparked discussions about potential changes in Starbucks' operational protocols.