Settlement: Five-figure compensation
Case Handler: Joshua Scanlon, Personal Injury Claims Handler
Case Type: Public Liability Claim
A Glasgow mother has secured a five-figure compensation settlement after suffering serious burn injuries when a hot takeaway coffee spilled over her at a Costa Coffee drive-thru.
Our specialist personal injury solicitors represented Deborah after she sustained severe burns that required hospital treatment, skin graft surgery and left her with permanent scarring. Following legal action, we successfully negotiated a five-figure settlement in recognition of the physical and psychological impact the incident has had on her life.
What Happened?
In July 2024, Deborah visited a Costa Coffee drive-thru to collect drinks for her family.
As a member of staff handed her a large Americano through the service window, the cup was extremely hot to the touch. When she instinctively loosened her grip, the cup slipped, causing the lid to come away and the hot coffee to spill over her abdomen and upper legs.
She immediately suffered severe burns and required emergency medical treatment.
Deborah spent two weeks in hospital undergoing treatment, including multiple skin graft procedures. Although her injuries have healed, she has been left with permanent scarring and continues to experience psychological effects, including flashbacks and disturbed sleep.
How We Helped
Following the accident, our team investigated the circumstances surrounding the incident and gathered evidence to establish liability.
Our investigations found that the takeaway cup lid had not been properly secured before the drink was handed to Deborah, creating a foreseeable risk that the coffee could spill and cause serious injury.
After presenting the evidence on Deborah's behalf, we successfully negotiated a five-figure compensation settlement, avoiding the need for lengthy court proceedings.
The Lasting Impact
Burn injuries can have consequences long after the initial wounds have healed.
As a result of the accident, Deborah experienced:
- Severe burns requiring hospital admission
- Multiple skin graft procedures
- Permanent scarring
- Ongoing pain and sensitivity
- Psychological trauma, including flashbacks and night terrors
- Reduced confidence due to the appearance of her scars
The compensation recognised both her physical injuries and the lasting impact they continue to have on her everyday life.
Joshua Scanlan
Joshua Scanlan
"Deborah suffered life changing injuries and we hope Costa has learned valuable lessons that will prevent them injuring their customers in future."
Can You Claim Compensation for Burns Caused by a Hot Drink?
If you have suffered burn injuries because a business failed to take reasonable care when serving hot food or drinks, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Businesses such as cafés, restaurants and takeaway outlets have a legal duty to protect customers from unnecessary risks. If negligence leads to an injury, a personal injury claim may help you recover compensation for your pain, suffering, financial losses and future care needs.
Why Choose Thompsons Scotland?
Our specialist personal injury solicitors have decades of experience helping people injured through no fault of their own.
We have successfully recovered millions of pounds in compensation for clients across Scotland and are committed to securing the best possible outcome in every case.
If you have been injured in a public place, contact our team for expert legal advice and find out whether you could make a compensation claim.
