Here's Why You Typically Can't Walk Or Bike In A Fast Food Drive-Thru

Riding a bike and walking are great ways to stay in shape and lessen your carbon footprint, but as much freedom as these modes of transportation give you, you can't actually go everywhere this way. One of the limitations might be a bit surprising — the drive-thru window at your local fast-food spot. You'll be hard-pressed to find a drive-thru that will serve you at the window if you aren't in a vehicle.

Some cities have opted to ban drive-thru windows altogether for a number of reasons — like the fact they contribute to traffic and pollution problems. But for those that have drive-thrus, there is a good chance pedestrians and bicyclists can't use them. And it isn't because these customers slow down the line (which is an avoidable red flag). The real reasons are safety and liability, factors restaurant owners are acutely aware of, making the issue a matter of both company policy and local ordinances. Because drive-thru windows are typically on private property, there are no specific traffic regulations stating pedestrians or bicycle riders can't use them, but you're likely to be ignored or told you can't be served at the window.

A restaurant's decision to refuse service to pedestrian's or bicyclists at the drive-thru could simply be the driving force behind it and the reasons could be anywhere from fear of liability, a past history of injury-causing accidents, or simply an insurance requirement. Regardless of the source of the decision, the goal is to keep injuries from happening.

Motorcycles fall into something of a gray area when it comes to drive-thrus, and it isn't for the same reason as customers on foot or bicycles. If the fast-food drive-thru operates on, what is known as, an in-ground inductive loop system — meaning sensors in the ground notify staff inside the restaurant that a vehicle is in the drive-thru — then there is a good chance the sensors won't pick up some motorcycles.

But the liability and insurance issues once again arise when it comes to motorcycles. Having to balance food, bags, and beverage containers raises a safety risk while the rider also has to manage balancing and driving the motorcycle — and with no cupholders or passenger seat at their disposal, this puts motorcyclists at a distinct disadvantage, creating a risk for burns and accidents. This also puts the private fast-food owner at risk as well.

Drive-thru etiquette can be a big deal. No one wants to sit and wait behind a customer who doesn't know what they want to order, but they also don't want to worry about customers who shouldn't be in the drive-thru. Play it safe and use a car, but if you prefer to stretch your legs, simply walk inside to place your order.