A quick stop at a drive-thru for a hot cup of coffee or tea should be convenient and safe. But for many unsuspecting customers, it has led to devastating burns, hospital visits, and even lifelong injuries. When restaurants fail to serve hot beverages properly—whether through dangerously high temperatures, defective lids, or careless handling—the consequences can be severe.
The Reality of Drive-Thru Burn Injuries
Drive-thru coffee accidents are more common than many people think. Some of the most serious cases involve:
- Lids popping off unexpectedly, spilling scalding liquid onto hands, laps, or even young children in the backseat.
- Flimsy cups collapsing, causing the entire drink to spill over a person’s body.
- Excessively hot liquids, often served at temperatures over 180°F, which can cause severe second- and third-degree burns in seconds.
- Employees mishandling drinks, leading to accidental spills inside vehicles or directly onto customers.
These accidents have resulted in catastrophic injuries, including:
- Severe burns requiring skin grafts
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Nerve damage and chronic pain
- Life-threatening infections
- Wrongful death in extreme cases
Famous Cases of Drive-Thru Burn Injuries
In a recent case a California Jury found Starbucks responsible for a delivery driver’s burns sustained after a hot beverage spilled in his lap caused by a lid not secured properly on a cup. Another well-known case of a coffee-related injury involved Stella Liebeck, who suffered third-degree burns after a McDonald’s coffee spill. Her case highlighted how dangerously hot beverages can cause life-altering injuries, especially when restaurants prioritize speed over safety. Since then, many other victims have come forward with similar cases, proving that this is not an isolated issue.
Who Is Responsible for These Dangerous Accidents?
If you or a loved one suffered a serious burn from a drive-thru coffee or tea spill, multiple parties may be liable, including:
- The restaurant or coffee shop for serving excessively hot beverages or using unsafe cups and lids.
- The cup or lid manufacturer if a defective product contributed to the spill.
- Negligent employees who failed to secure the lid properly or mishandled the drink.
Businesses that serve hot drinks have a responsibility to ensure they are safe for customers. When they fail in that duty, they should be held accountable.
Why You Must Call Attorney Richard Washington Immediately
If you or someone you love has been catastrophically injured by a burn, time is critical. Evidence needs to be preserved, experts may need to be consulted, and insurance companies must be dealt with aggressively to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Attorney Richard Washington is an experienced personal injury lawyer who fights for victims of devastating injuries. With a deep understanding of the legal and technical aspects of accidents, he will work tirelessly to get you justice.
Call Today for a Free Consultation
Don’t let the responsible parties walk away while you and your family suffer. Call Attorney Richard Washington now at Toll free at 1-800-988-0158 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
You don’t pay unless we win. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Attorney Richard Washington fights for injured people and their families. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Toll free at 1-800-988-0158.