Please explain the elements in a negligence action as well as what defenses can be raised. Consider the following:

The plaintiff, Stella Liebeck $(19122004),[2]$ a $79-$year$-$old woman, suffered third$-$degree burns in her pelvic region when she accidentally spilled coffee in her lap after purchasing it from a McDonald's restaurant. She was hospitalized for eight days while undergoing skin grafting, followed by two years of medical treatment. Liebeck sought to settle with McDonald's for $$20,000$ to cover her medical expenses. When McDonald's refused, Liebeck's attorney filed suit in the U$.$S$.$ District Court for the District of New Mexico, accusing McDonald's of gross negligence.

What defenses are available for McDonald's? Explain.