Michael Garcia suffered permanent and life-changing disfigurement to his genitals after he was severely burned by the Starbucks tea spilling in his lap, according to the suit.
Michael Garcia suffered permanent and life-changing disfigurement to his genitals after he was severely burned by the Starbucks tea spilling in his lap, according to the suit.

Garcia, now 24, was awarded $50 million by a California jury after suffering severe burns to his groin area, leading to permanent disfigurement and emotional trauma.

The Incident

The incident occurred in October 2022 when Garcia stopped at a Starbucks drive-thru in LA while working his delivery route. According to court records, Garcia ordered two cups of tea. As a Starbucks employee handed him the drinks, one cup of hot tea spilled onto Garcia’s lap.

The tea was reportedly heated to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, well above what many consider a safe serving temperature. The spill caused third-degree burns to Garcia’s inner thighs, groin, and genital area. He was rushed to a nearby hospital and underwent multiple skin graft surgeries. Despite medical intervention, Garcia’s injuries resulted in permanent scarring and disfigurement.

The Lawsuit

Garcia filed a lawsuit against Starbucks and Pactiv Packaging, the manufacturer of the cup and lid. His legal team argued that the lid was defective and prone to popping off, a design flaw that Starbucks allegedly knew about. Starbucks denied responsibility, claiming the employee handed over the cup properly and that Garcia’s own handling may have contributed to the spill.

However, Garcia’s lawyers presented evidence that Starbucks had received multiple prior complaints about lids detaching from hot drinks. They also argued that Starbucks should have served the tea at a lower temperature.

After deliberating for several hours, the jury sided with Garcia, awarding him $50 million in damages — $25 million for past and future pain and suffering, and $25 million in economic losses related to medical expenses and diminished earning capacity.

Garcia’s Life After the Accident

Since the accident, Garcia has struggled physically and emotionally. In court, he testified about the intense pain he experienced during and after the spill. He described the lasting impact on his personal life, including his self-esteem and ability to engage in intimate relationships. Garcia also stated that the injuries affected his ability to perform his job as a delivery driver, leading to a drop in income.

Friends and family members who testified described Garcia as a hardworking individual who had been providing for his mother and younger siblings. They noted that the injury not only disrupted his life but also created financial strain on his family.

Starbucks’ Response

In a statement following the verdict, Starbucks expressed sympathy for Garcia but maintained that the company followed proper safety protocols. “While we respect the jury’s decision, we strongly believe our partners [employees] did not act negligently,” the statement read. Starbucks also indicated it may consider appealing the verdict.

The company faces growing scrutiny over safety practices related to handling hot beverages. Legal analysts point out that this case echoes the famous 1992 McDonald’s coffee lawsuit, in which a customer was awarded millions after suffering severe burns from a spilled cup of coffee.

Industry Impact

Garcia’s case has reignited debate over hot beverage safety standards in the food and beverage industry. Legal experts suggest that companies like Starbucks may face increased pressure to revisit their protocols and packaging. Some believe that manufacturers will likely reassess the design of cups and lids to minimize future risks.

“This verdict sends a clear message,” said consumer safety attorney Daniel Kramer, who was not involved in the case. “Juries are holding corporations accountable when they put profits ahead of customer safety.”

Who is Michael Garcia?

Before the accident, Garcia was an ordinary young man working long shifts as a delivery driver in LA. Raised in a working-class family, Garcia had dreams of saving enough to start his own business. Friends describe him as humble, hardworking, and dedicated to supporting his family.

The injury shifted the trajectory of his life. While Garcia now has significant financial compensation, his attorneys emphasized that no amount of money can undo the lasting damage to his physical and emotional well-being.

For Garcia, the verdict is a step toward justice, but not closure. He continues to undergo medical treatments and therapy while adjusting to a new reality shaped by an accident that began with a simple cup of tea.

How to Make Iced Matcha Latte in Summer How to Make Iced Matcha Latte in Summer's Different Types With Easy Steps

Learn how to make different iced Matcha Latte to help cool down in the hot summer: Vanilla Matcha Latte, Starbucks Recipe, Espresso and 2 Layers ...
Starbucks Strike Across 43 States: Barista Starbucks Strike Across 43 States: Barista's $15.49 Vs. CEO's $50,000 an Hour

Starbucks Strike Across 43 States: Baristas Demand Fair Wages While CEO Earnings Highlight Inequality