A family in Florida has been awarded $800,000 in a lawsuit against McDonald’s after their daughter suffered second-degree burns from a Chicken McNugget. The case has reignited discussions about the responsibility of fast-food chains to ensure the safety of their products. This payout comes as a significant blow to McDonald’s, which initially faced a claim of $15 million from the family.
By August Roberts
The Incident: A Meal Turns Into a Nightmare
The family had ordered a Happy Meal from a McDonald’s drive-thru for their then four-year-old daughter, Olivia. When the mother passed the meal to the back seat, a Chicken McNugget fell out and got stuck in the car seat, causing second-degree burns on Olivia’s leg.
The Lawsuit: A Hefty Claim of $15 Million
Initially, the family demanded an astonishing $15 million in damages, claiming that McDonald’s failed to warn about the risks of hot food. The fast-food giant countered, stating that the McNugget could not have been hotter than 158° F and should not be pressed against human skin for an extended period.
The Verdict: Jury Awards $800,000
Despite McDonald’s arguments, the jury found the company guilty of not adequately warning customers about the risks associated with hot food items. However, they did not find any negligence for the employees at the specific McDonald’s outlet.
Reactions: Mixed Feelings on Both Sides
While the mother, Philana, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, McDonald’s disagreed. The company’s lawyers said, “This was an unfortunate incident, but we do not agree with the verdict.”
The case serves as a cautionary tale for both fast-food chains and consumers. It highlights the importance of safety measures and proper warnings, especially when it comes to food that could potentially cause harm. While the family did not receive the $15 million they initially sought, the $800,000 award is a significant sum that underscores the gravity of the issue. This case is likely to have ripple effects in the fast-food industry, prompting other companies to reevaluate their safety protocols.