Drones, once used primarily by the military, have exploded in popularity among hobbyists, commercial operators, and even delivery services. These high-flying gadgets offer convenience, fun, and innovation, but they also come with significant risks. When a drone is involved in an accident, the damage can range from property destruction to serious personal injuries. Understanding how these incidents translate into personal injury claims is crucial, especially as drone use continues to rise.
How Drone Accidents Happen
Drone accidents can occur in various settings—whether during a casual neighborhood flight or at a large public event. The causes are often linked to operator error, mechanical failure, or regulatory violations. Some of the most common drone-related incidents include:
Drone Collisions: A drone can collide with a person, building, or vehicle, potentially causing bodily harm or property damage.
Malfunctioning Drones: Technical problems such as faulty batteries, loss of GPS signal, or software glitches can result in a drone crashing into people or property.
Invasion of Privacy: While not necessarily resulting in physical injury, drones have raised concerns about privacy violations, which can lead to emotional distress or other legal consequences.
Loss of Control: Some drones can malfunction or be affected by interference, causing them to go rogue and crash, creating hazardous situations for those nearby.
When any of these situations occur, injured parties may seek legal recourse to recover compensation for their damages.
Who is Liable in a Drone Accident?
Determining liability in a drone accident can be complex. Several factors come into play when establishing who is at fault, including the operator’s actions, the condition of the drone, and whether all safety regulations were followed. Liability can fall on one or more of the following:
Drone Operator: If the operator was negligent, distracted, or violating FAA regulations, they may be held responsible for any injuries or damages caused. For example, flying too close to people or buildings or operating the drone while under the influence of alcohol can lead to liability claims.
Drone Manufacturer: If the accident was caused by a defect in the drone itself, such as a malfunctioning motor or software error, the manufacturer could be held liable under product liability laws.
Property Owner: In certain situations, the property owner where the drone is being flown could share liability, especially if the environment contributed to the accident or if the property owner was aware of illegal drone activity on their premises.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Drone Accident
If you’re injured in a drone accident, your first step should be to seek medical attention. Next, it’s crucial to document the incident as thoroughly as possible. Photos, videos, witness statements, and the drone’s flight data can all serve as evidence in a personal injury claim. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities and determine the best course of action.
Victims of drone accidents can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even property damage. In cases where the drone operator acted with gross negligence or recklessness, punitive damages may also be pursued.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys
If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone. Help is available today. Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.
References:
https://skykam.co.uk/drone-statistics/
https://www.faa.gov/faq/how-many-people-have-had-life-threating-injures-or-been-killed-small-uas-or-drone-falling-them
