As the weather warms up and families start looking for fun ways to get out of the house, drive-in movie theaters come back to life. It’s a nostalgic, community-focused experience—and a great business opportunity. But before you flip the switch on the projector and welcome that first wave of cars, there’s some important behind-the-scenes work to do.
At The Agent Insurance Services (and DriveInInsurance.com), we work with business owners every day to help them avoid claims before they happen—because fewer claims mean more stable insurance costs (and fewer headaches for you). Here’s what we’d want every drive-in theater owner to think about before opening for the season:
1. Inspect the Property Top to Bottom
After months of being closed, your property needs a full walkthrough. Look for:
- Potholes or uneven driving surfaces
- Damaged fencing or signage
- Broken speakers or electrical components
- Overgrown landscaping that could block visibility
These might seem minor, but they’re some of the most common causes of liability claims. A customer tripping in the dark or damaging their vehicle can quickly turn into a costly situation.
2. Lighting Matters More Than You Think
Drive-ins are meant to be dark—but not too dark.
Make sure:
- Entry and exit points are clearly lit
- Walkways to restrooms and concession stands are visible
- Emergency lighting is functional
Poor lighting is a major contributor to slips, trips, and falls. A few strategic upgrades can go a long way in preventing injuries.
3. Review Traffic Flow and Parking Layout
You’re essentially running a mini traffic system every night. Before opening:
- Clearly mark lanes and parking spots
- Post directional signage
- Train staff on how to guide vehicles safely
Accidents in parking areas are one of the most common claims we see—and they’re often preventable with better organization and staff oversight.
4. Check Your Concession Operations
If you’re serving food (and let’s be honest—that’s a big part of your revenue), you’ll want to:
- Inspect kitchen equipment
- Ensure proper food storage and handling
- Train staff on safety and cleanliness
Food-related claims and equipment fires can be a big exposure if things aren’t maintained properly.
5. Test Electrical and Projection Equipment
Old wiring, outdoor exposure, and seasonal downtime can all take a toll.
Before opening:
- Have a professional inspect electrical systems
- Test projection and sound equipment
- Look for frayed wires or overloaded circuits
Electrical issues don’t just interrupt your show—they can lead to serious property damage claims.
6. Update Emergency Plans and Staff Training
Things happen—even with the best preparation. Make sure your team is ready by:
- Reviewing emergency procedures
- Training staff on evacuation plans
- Keeping first aid kits stocked and accessible
When employees know how to respond quickly, you can often minimize the severity of an incident.
7. Double-Check Your Insurance Coverage
Before opening night is the perfect time to review your policy. Has anything changed?
- Added new structures or equipment?
- Expanded food service?
- Hosting special events?
These details matter. If your coverage doesn’t reflect your current operations, you could be exposed when a claim happens.
Final Thoughts
Drive-in theaters are all about creating a fun, memorable experience—but behind the scenes, there’s a lot that goes into making sure that experience is also safe.
Taking the time to prepare now can help you avoid claims later—and keep your insurance costs from creeping up year after year.
If you’re not sure where your risks are or whether your current coverage is keeping up, that’s exactly what we’re here for. At The Agent Insurance Services, we help business owners spot gaps, tighten up their operations, and head into the season with confidence.
Here’s to a smooth, safe, and successful opening night 🍿
Our team of drive-ins insurance experts are here to help!
Learn more about us (and request a complimentary proposal) here.