How much culpability does McDonalds have if the coffee is "not at all hotter
than usual"?

IMHO, nearly none. Close enough to none to warrant tossing the case
out. But in that case...

1: Either coffee would normally served at a temperature which would
cause extensive third degree burns if spilled, and people would normally
(and justifiably) treat it with much more respect than they do presently, or

2: Coffee would be served at McDonalds at the cooler temperature that
most people are in fact accustomed to, and the injuries sustained by the
plaintiff would not have been sufficient or unexpected enough for her to
bring suit in the first place.

Jose
--
Humans are pack animals. Above all things, they have a deep need to
follow something, be it a leader, a creed, or a mob. Whosoever fully
understands this holds the world in his hands.
for Email, make the obvious change in the address.