Slip Of The Week

Here’s a case that will bring tears to your eyes for two reasons.

On February 8, 2020 a delivery driver, Michael Garcia, picked up a venti-sized tea from a Starbucks drive-through in the Los Angeles area. Unfortunately, the lid was not secured properly and the steaming hot contents spilled on to his lap, causing him severe burns in the genital area. The poor chap had to go several skin grafts and other procedures on his genitals, resulting in permanent and life-changing disfigurement.

As is the American way, Garcia sued the coffee chain, alleging gross negligence. Arguing that an employee did not wedge the scalding-hot tea firmly enough into a takeaway tray. A judge in Loss Angeles County found in his favour.

Given what he had gone through, that seems fair enough, although it always pays, I find, to check that the lid is securely in position. The liquid is hot, after all. What was astonishing is that the judge awarded him $50m in damages.

Needless to say, Starbucks are to appeal.