Hot Coffee, Real Danger: Recent Starbucks Burn Injury Verdict Highlights Ongoing Safety Concerns

On March 5, 2025, a California state court jury found Starbucks liable for severe burns suffered by a Postmates driver during a routine pickup. The case revealed that a drive-through barista failed to properly secure hot drinks in a takeout container, resulting in serious injuries when the contents spilled on the driver. The case will now advance to the damages phase to determine appropriate compensation.

Pattern of Similar Incidents

This recent verdict aligns with another ongoing case filed by AC SOCAL LAW P.C. in January 2024. The lawsuit, Briseno v. Starbucks Corporation, et al. (Case No. 2025CUPP037362, California Superior Court – Ventura County), represents a client who sustained severe burns when her to-go cup lid unexpectedly failed while she was seated in a vehicle.

The Briseno lawsuit makes serious allegations:

• Starbucks knew or recklessly disregarded that their to-go lids are defective
• The lids are prone to popping off without warning
• This defect substantially increases the risk of serious customer injuries
• Starbucks was aware of the defective nature of their lids based on multiple scaling incidents and related lawsuits nationwide

Legal Help Available

If you or someone you know has been injured by products sold at Starbucks, particularly hot beverages, immediate legal consultation is recommended. Contact attorney Eric M. Carrino, Esq., a partner at AC SOCAL LAW P.C., to discuss your legal rights and potential options.

Important: Your time to take action may be limited by applicable deadlines or statutes of limitation.

About AC SOCAL LAW P.C.

AC SOCAL LAW P.C. is a full-service law firm dedicated to vindicating the rights and interests of injury victims. Learn more about our firm and services here.

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