Mcdonald'S, Hot Coffee, and a Pet in the Microwave (Mc Do, Cafe Brulant, Et Un Animal Domestique Dans Le Four a Micro-Ondes)

Abstract

This article (written in French) examines the origins of the mythical 'cat in the microwave' case that is so often discussed abroad. This case is, in reality, little more than a legal 'urban legend.' Other urban legends exist, such as the 'real' McDonald's Coffee Spill case, which was settled out-of-court and for which the true facts and outcome are generally unknown. More importantly, the case has no jurisprudential value. The article proposes alternatives for teaching of U.S. tort law abroad.

Note: Downloadable document is in French.

Keywords: Punitive damages, pet in microwave, McDonald's Coffee Spill Case, BMW v. Gore

JEL Classification: K13, K33