I have been a Chick-fil-A customer since the early 1990s. While I was in college, Mr. Cathy visited my university. After hearing my story of adoption, foster care, and homelessness, he personally invited me to visit a Chick-fil-A that afternoon. That day I had my first sweet tea, Chick-fil-A sandwich, and Polynesian sauce--and I've been a loyal customer ever since. Chick-fil-A has long been a place of comfort for me.
I went to the Loveland, Colorado location near the Event Center and entered the drive-through using the far-left lane. I have a blind spot on my right side due to a closed head injury. Because of snow cover and a dogleg in the lane that I did not see, I struck a large rock. This was completely my fault.
I returned to the restaurant, explained what had happened, and offered my insurance information, name, and contact information. I asked to speak with a manager but was told one was not available, even though one appeared to be present in the dining area at the time.
The next day, I was contacted by their insurance company, which believed I was filing a claim. I clarified--multiple times and on a recorded line--that I was not making a claim and was taking full responsibility. I ultimately paid approximately $3,000 out of pocket to repair my truck.
Weeks later, I was told the restaurant was denying a claim. I again explained that I was not filing one. During that conversation, it became clear there had been some confusion, as the investigator seemed surprised that so much effort had gone into a situation where I had consistently accepted responsibility. I was also informed that the restaurant was not pursuing a claim against me, which clarified that no claim had ever been intended.
Because I work in insurance, I felt it was necessary to notify my own carrier to avoid any risk related to an unreported incident. As a result, there is a $0 claim on my record, which in Colorado will still affect insurance rates.
I share this experience with disappointment, as I believe a brief conversation early on could have resolved the situation quickly. I remain a loyal Chick-fil-A customer and hope future situations like this can be handled more directly. read more