A customer has filed a lawsuit against a major coffee chain, alleging negligence after suffering severe injuries from a fall at one of its locations. Lori Ketchum, represented by Morgan & Morgan Los Angeles, LLP, filed the complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego on February 2, 2024, against Starbucks Corporation.
The incident occurred on September 10, 2023, when Ketchum visited a Starbucks store located at 3440 Del Lago Boulevard in Escondido, California. According to the complaint, Ketchum tripped over a poorly secured rug at the entrance and fell forcefully onto the floor, resulting in severe injuries including a broken bone. The plaintiff asserts that Starbucks had prior knowledge of the hazardous condition but failed to take appropriate measures to rectify it or warn customers. "Defendants’ agents or employees knew of the problems with the poorly secure entrance rug," states the complaint.
Ketchum further alleges that there have been numerous reports from customers and employees about safety issues at various Starbucks locations. These reports include complaints about defective coffee cups and lids which have been public information since at least 2021. The plaintiff contends that these incidents were frequent enough that Starbucks should have been aware of the potential for injury to its patrons.
The lawsuit also accuses Starbucks of negligent hiring, supervision, and retention of its employees. The plaintiff claims that Starbucks failed to properly train its staff on safety procedures and did not implement adequate safety measures to prevent such accidents. "Defendants failed to establish policies, procedures or guidelines to prevent safety hazards," reads another part of the complaint.
Ketchum is seeking general and special damages according to proof presented during trial. She is also asking for compensation for medical expenses—both current and future—as well as incidental costs related to her injuries. Additionally, she seeks prejudgment interest as allowed by law and any other relief deemed just and proper by the court.
The case is being handled by attorney Tatevik Gasparyan from Morgan & Morgan Los Angeles LLP.