National Drive-Thru Day, celebrated on July 24th, is a tribute to the convenience of drive-thru services, a staple in American culture. From fast food to banking, pharmacies, and more, drive-thrus have revolutionized the way we access goods and services. While the primary focus of this day is to appreciate the ease and efficiency of drive-thrus, it's also a great opportunity to explore the role of insurance in ensuring these services run smoothly.

Drive-thrus have come a long way since the first one opened in 1947 at Red's Giant Hamburg in Springfield, Missouri. Today, nearly every major fast-food chain offers drive-thru services, and they've expanded to other sectors like banking, pharmacies, and even COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.

Operating a drive-thru involves various risks that require adequate insurance coverage. Here are some key insurance aspects to consider:

General Liability Insurance : This is crucial for any business with a drive-thru. It covers injuries to customers or damage to their property while on the premises. Slip and fall accidents, for example, are common in drive-thru lanes, especially in adverse weather conditions. Commercial Property Insurance : This protects the physical assets of the business, including the building, equipment, and signage. Drive-thrus often require specialized equipment, like intercom systems and menu boards, which need to be insured against damage or theft. Business Interruption Insurance : If a natural disaster or other unforeseen event forces a drive-thru to close temporarily, business interruption insurance can cover the lost income and operating expenses during the downtime. Commercial Auto Insurance : For businesses that use vehicles for delivery or other services, commercial auto insurance is essential. This covers accidents and damages involving company vehicles. Workers' Compensation Insurance : Employees working in drive-thrus are exposed to various risks, from repetitive strain injuries to accidents involving hot equipment. Workers' compensation insurance ensures they are covered for any work-related injuries or illnesses. Cyber Liability Insurance: With many drive-thrus now offering mobile app ordering and payment, the risk of cyber-attacks has increased. Cyber liability insurance can protect against data breaches and other cyber threats.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the importance of drive-thrus, as they allow for contactless transactions. During the pandemic, many businesses have had to adapt their insurance policies to cover new risks, such as increased delivery services and the need for enhanced sanitation protocols.

Review and Update Policies : Regularly review your insurance policies to ensure they cover all potential risks. As your business grows and evolves, your insurance needs may change. Train Employees: Proper training for employees can reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall safety. This includes training on how to handle food safely, operate equipment, and manage customer interactions. Invest in Technology: Upgrading to the latest technology can improve efficiency and security. For example, investing in secure payment systems can reduce the risk of data breaches. Maintain the Property: Regular maintenance of the drive-thru lane, equipment, and signage can prevent accidents and reduce liability.

National Drive-Thru Day is a great time to appreciate the convenience and efficiency of drive-thrus. It's also a reminder for business owners to review their insurance coverage and ensure they are adequately protected. Whether you're grabbing a quick meal, depositing a check, or picking up a prescription, drive-thrus make life easier – and with the right insurance, they can keep running smoothly and safely.

Happy National Drive-Thru Day from Riseson Insurance in Tempe !

The Evolution of Drive-Thrus

Insurance Considerations for Drive-Thrus

Special Considerations During COVID-19

Tips for Drive-Thru Business Owners

1. General Liability Insurance : This is crucial for any business with a drive-thru. It covers injuries to customers or damage to their property while on the premises. Slip and fall accidents, for example, are common in drive-thru lanes, especially in adverse weather conditions.
2. Commercial Property Insurance : This protects the physical assets of the business, including the building, equipment, and signage. Drive-thrus often require specialized equipment, like intercom systems and menu boards, which need to be insured against damage or theft.
3. Business Interruption Insurance : If a natural disaster or other unforeseen event forces a drive-thru to close temporarily, business interruption insurance can cover the lost income and operating expenses during the downtime.
4. Commercial Auto Insurance : For businesses that use vehicles for delivery or other services, commercial auto insurance is essential. This covers accidents and damages involving company vehicles.
5. Workers' Compensation Insurance : Employees working in drive-thrus are exposed to various risks, from repetitive strain injuries to accidents involving hot equipment. Workers' compensation insurance ensures they are covered for any work-related injuries or illnesses.
6. Cyber Liability Insurance: With many drive-thrus now offering mobile app ordering and payment, the risk of cyber-attacks has increased. Cyber liability insurance can protect against data breaches and other cyber threats.

• Review and Update Policies : Regularly review your insurance policies to ensure they cover all potential risks. As your business grows and evolves, your insurance needs may change.
• Train Employees: Proper training for employees can reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall safety. This includes training on how to handle food safely, operate equipment, and manage customer interactions.
• Invest in Technology: Upgrading to the latest technology can improve efficiency and security. For example, investing in secure payment systems can reduce the risk of data breaches.
• Maintain the Property: Regular maintenance of the drive-thru lane, equipment, and signage can prevent accidents and reduce liability.