It’s no secret police across the country have been cracking down on drivers who use their mobiles while behind the wheel.

But until very recently, most thought the dangerous practice synonymous with public roads.

Then the Victorian Police made an interesting post on Facebook directed at motorists who use their phone to order and pay for food while navigating drive-thru lanes at fast food restaurants like McDonald’s.

The Police ran a poll asking followers whether it was legal. Almost two thirds of respondents assumed it was.

To the surprise of many, they were wrong. The Police pointed out that someone at the wheel can only permissibly use a mobile phone if the handbrake is engaged and the engine switched off – regardless of whether they are on a public or private thoroughfare.

With a growing proportion of customers using restaurant apps to order food, and/or banking apps to pay for it, this clarification of the law would be of great interest to franchise owners. More so, given many McDonald’s outlets generously offer police and other emergency services personnel discounts.

This situation is another example of how rapidly evolving technology invites all manner of unforeseen risks and consequences for a franchise owner.

With access to Australia’s top lenders, Enterprise can help McDonald’s franchisees handle the ever-changing landscape of the fast food business.