Drones are becoming increasingly popular for recreation and professional use, but they also pose risks. When drone mishaps result in injuries, determining liability can be complex. Understanding your rights and the steps to take can help you recover damages if a drone in Florida injures you.
Keep reading to learn more from our Florida personal injury lawyers. If you or a loved one are injured by a drone, call us at (561) 655-1990 to learn how we can help.
Common causes of injuries from drones
Injuries from drones often result from negligence or equipment malfunction. Common causes include:
- Pilot error: Improper operation, such as flying a drone too close to people or failing to maintain control.
- Mechanical failure: Malfunctions, such as defective propellers or motor issues, can cause drones to crash and injure bystanders.
- Reckless operation: Flying in restricted areas, ignoring safety guidelines, or intentionally using a drone to harm someone.
- Weather conditions: High winds or rain can make drone operation dangerous and lead to accidents.
Steps to take if you’re injured by a drone
If a drone has injured you, it’s important to take these steps:
- Seek medical attention: Prioritize treating your injuries and document them for legal purposes.
- Document the incident: Take photos of the drone, your injuries, and the accident scene. Record the drone’s model, make, and any identifying information.
- Identify the operator: Obtain the name and contact information of the drone pilot or owner.
- File a report: Report the incident to local law enforcement and, if applicable, to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which regulates drone use.
- Consult an attorney: An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and determine liability.
Who’s liable for injuries from drones?
Determining liability depends on the circumstances of the accident. Potentially liable parties include:
- Drone operator: If the operator’s negligence caused the accident, they are typically held liable. Under Florida Statutes § 768.81, negligence is determined by whether the operator acted with reasonable care.
- Drone owner: If the drone was operated by someone other than the owner, the owner may still share liability if they allowed the operator to use the drone without proper training.
- Manufacturer: If the injury resulted from a defective drone, the manufacturer could be liable under product liability laws.
- Event organizers: In cases where drones are used at organized events, the entity responsible for overseeing safety may share liability.
Compensation for drone-related injuries
Victims of drone injuries may seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If the injury prevents you from working.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged by the drone.
Florida laws governing drone use
Drone operators in Florida must comply with state and federal regulations. Under Florida Statutes § 934.50, drones cannot be used to invade privacy. Additionally, FAA guidelines prohibit flying drones recklessly or in restricted areas. Violations of these regulations may strengthen your injury claim.
How Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath can help
At Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, we have experience handling personal injury claims involving drones. Our team will investigate the incident, identify liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We understand the complexities of drone-related accidents and are here to protect your rights.
Contact us for a free consultation
If you’ve suffered injuries from drones, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Contact Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath at (561) 655-1990 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure justice for your injuries.