To mitigate these risks, operators must first identify how they will be delivering to their guests. Three standard options for last-mile logistics are: 

1. In-House Delivery, where restaurants hire their own drivers and vehicles may be provided by the driver or restaurant.
2. Out-Sourced Delivery, where restaurants contract with a third-party to complete last-mile logistics.
3. Co-operative Delivery, where local restaurants form a delivery co-operative together to create a shared delivery service. 

If you have in-house or co-operative delivery:

• Implement safety standards and regular training for delivery drivers. This can include providing safety gear, inspecting delivery vehicles, and establishing clear communication channels.

• Designate a delivery captain to conduct pre-shifts safety checks to keep best practices top of mind.

For restaurants in NYC, review DOT Requirements for Commercial Bicyclists.

If you out-source delivery:

• Interview the third-party on how they address quality control and guest service incidents.

• Execute a contract with the third-party that includes hold harmless and indemnification clauses in your favor. This can protect your interests in the event of an incident caused by a third-party working on your behalf.

• Obtain a certificate of insurance that provides proof of coverage and names your business entity as an additional insured on the third-party’s general liability policy.