Most of us grab a morning coffee without giving it a second thought. But what happens when that simple routine ends in a trip to the emergency room? Hot beverage injuries are far more common and severe than people realize. As a Louisiana injury law firm, we understand how quickly a preventable burn can disrupt a person’s life. And juries across the country are paying attention.
The Case Many People Remember
For people of a certain age, the 1994 McDonald’s coffee case remains unforgettable. A woman suffered third-degree burns after being served coffee at dangerously high temperatures, hot enough to cause life-altering injury in seconds. That case reshaped the fast-food industry and forced businesses to rethink how they handle hot beverages.
But despite the lessons learned, these incidents are still happening.
A Recent $50 Million Verdict
Just this year, a California jury awarded $50 million to a delivery driver burned by a Starbucks beverage. The spill led to severe burns, nerve damage, and permanent disfigurement. The jury found that the company failed to follow basic safety standards.
That verdict was not about an accident. It was about negligence.
When a “Simple Spill” Is Not So Simple
Hot beverage cases typically come down to whether a business acted responsibly. Common causes of burn injuries include:
- Liquids served at excessively high temperatures
- Lids that are not properly secured
- Cups that are defective or too flimsy
- Failure to use sleeves or double cups
- Employees not being trained to handle hot drinks safely
Businesses know the risks. Hot drinks can cause catastrophic burns in seconds. When they fail to take straightforward precautions, people pay the price.
You Deserve Answers and Protection
If you have been injured because a company did not follow proper safety measures, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. Medical bills, missed work, and long-term scarring can take a heavy toll.
Our team at Joubert Law Firm is here to help you understand your rights, what went wrong, and what compensation you may be entitled to under Louisiana law.
If you or a loved one has suffered a burn or hot beverage injury, contact us today. Your recovery and your future deserve strong legal protection.