SHK Law Takes on Starbucks: Representing Victim of Scalding Coffee Burns in High-Profile Lawsuit

At SHK Law, we are committed to advocating for consumer safety and holding corporations accountable when they put profits over people. In line with our mission, SHK Law, filed a lawsuit against Starbucks Corporation on behalf of Ms. Muriel Evans, a Los Angeles woman who suffered severe burns after a faulty coffee cup lid came off in a Starbucks drive-through, causing scalding hot coffee to spill on her lap. This case is not just about one incident – it addresses an ongoing issue of coffee served at excessively hot temperatures in cups with faulty lids, which has caused injuries to numerous customers over the span of many years. Through this lawsuit, Ms. Evans aims to tackle broader issues of corporate responsibility and consumer protection.

The Case Details

Ms. Evans visited a Starbucks location in Lynwood, California, where she ordered a hot coffee through the drive-through. As the barista handed the cup to Ms. Evans, the lid popped off, and the coffee—served at a temperature believed to be around 190 degrees Fahrenheit—spilled onto her lap, causing severe burns. According to Starbucks’ own safety guidelines, skin can burn at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, highlighting the excessive temperature at which their coffee was served.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims Starbucks was aware of the faulty lid design for years, as evidenced by customer complaints and prior lawsuits. Reports indicate Starbucks receives at least 80 complaints monthly related to lids popping off, leading to spill hazards and burns. Despite these consumer complaints, Starbucks did not fix the problem.

Industry Implications and Broader Concerns

This lawsuit isn’t just about one cup of spilled coffee—it raises important questions about long-standing industry practices regarding the serving temperatures of hot beverages and the safety of their packaging. According to the LA Times, this case could set a significant precedent for other consumers who have experienced similar injuries.

A prior case involving similar facts resulted in a $100,000 verdict in favor of a Florida woman who was also burned by Starbucks coffee. The lawsuit highlights that Starbucks had been aware of the hazards of ill-fitting lids and unsafe temperatures for years but did not take adequate steps to mitigate them, demonstrating a reckless disregard for customer safety. More details on this ongoing litigation can be found on Law360.

Our Commitment to Justice and Consumer Safety

At SHK Law, we believe that every consumer has the right to be safe from harm when purchasing products from major corporations. This case underscores our commitment to advocating for changes that prioritize safety over profits. By pursuing both compensatory and punitive damages, we aim to send a clear message that neglecting customer safety is unacceptable and must be addressed.

This lawsuit is more than a call for justice for Ms. Evans; it’s a demand for accountability in corporate practices that affect millions of consumers every day. We encourage readers to follow this case as it unfolds and consider the broader implications for consumer safety standards across the industry.

For more information and ongoing updates, stay connected with us here on our Media page. If you or someone you know has experienced a similar incident, contact us today for a consultation. At SHK Law, we’re here to fight for you.