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BM_3Couple crying over spilled coffee

Posted: Thu Jul 17, 2003 1:45 pm
by TexasStooge
EASTON, PA. (Court TV) —

A couple isn't crying over spilled coffee they're suing.

A court battle is brewing between Brent and Virginia Zimmer of Gilbert, Pa., and Lafayette College. The couple is seeking $150,000 in damages from the college and its dining services over two carafes of spilled coffee.

The Zimmers allege in the suit that Brent Zimmer suffered second- and third-degree burns on his neck, back and buttocks after a waitress spilled coffee on him during an event last October.

According to court papers, Zimmer suffered scarring and nervous system damage that still causes him pain. He also allegedly lost some $3,250 in income and incurred $825 in medical expenses.

Lafayette University officials would not comment on the suit.

The lawsuit accuses the defendants of transporting the coffee in a hazardous manner and failing to warn patrons and properly train and supervise servers.

And while she was not hit directly by the scalding coffee, Virginia Zimmer also claims she was burned emotionally in the incident.

"She heard the screams and moans of her husband as he was being burned," the suit claims, and suffers emotional distress and the continuing loss of her husband's assistance and companionship.

Posted: Thu Jul 17, 2003 2:10 pm
by Stephanie
Failed to warn patrons of what? Coffee being served??? Was the girl supposed to be wearing a neon sign. This is just like the McDonald's lawsuit - accidents happen!

Posted: Thu Jul 17, 2003 2:15 pm
by Lindaloo
Speaking of McDonalds... there was a similar lawsuit lodged against them for this very same thing. While I would not go to the extremes as to filing a lawsuit, I would want them to pay for doctor bills. Hot Coffee is HOT!! And some is even hot enough to cause first degree burns. But it was an accident in both cases and lawsuits should not have been filed in either case. I was there at McDonalds when the coffee was dumped on a woman. The lid was not secure. Since then MS has regulated the temps of coffee in restaurants. It falls under what you call "liability"

Posted: Thu Jul 17, 2003 5:37 pm
by streetsoldier
Just another example of a "tort-crazy" society...and the only people to benefit will be the trial lawyers. :roll: