What to Do If You Receive a Personal Injury from a Drone

As the number of drones in both the private and commercial sectors proliferate, so do the number of injuries caused by them—an estimated 850 drone-related injuries are treated in U.S. emergency departments annually. With nearly 856,000 registered drones in the U.S., that number is bound to increase. The majority of those injuries are lacerations and contusions, many serious, and deaths have been reported.

The common causes of drone-related injuries include operator errors, equipment malfunctions, and inadequate safety precautions, such as failing to maintain a clear line of sight, flying over people, and not conducting thorough pre-flight checks.

What should you do if you receive a personal injury from a drone?

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If the injury is severe, such as head trauma or deep lacerations, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

Be sure to document any medical treatment you receive. Keep records of doctor visits, prescriptions, and any related expenses. That documentation could be critical for legal and insurance purposes.

Document the Incident

Take photos and videos if possible. Capture images of your injuries, the drone, and the location of the incident. Write down all pertinent details, including the date, time, weather conditions, and any other relevant factors that might have contributed to the accident.

Identify the Drone and Operator

• Locate the operator—Try to identify the person controlling the drone. This could be a hobbyist, commercial pilot, or someone violating government regulations.
• Check for registration numbers—Any drones over 0.55 pounds in the U.S. are required by law to be registered with the FAA and display an identification number.

Gather Witness Statements

Get contact information from any witnesses to the incident, including their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Write down their statements, or record them if possible. Eyewitness testimony can be valuable in establishing liability.

File a Police Report

• Contact local law enforcement—Reporting the incident helps create an official record.
• Provide evidence—Share your incident documentation and witness statements with the police.

Report the Incident to the FAA

File a complaint—If the drone was operated recklessly or in restricted airspace, report the incident to the FAA through their DroneZone platform or their Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS).

Preserve All Evidence

• Keep physical evidence—Hold on to damaged clothing, personal items, and any drone parts that may have broken off during the incident.
• Secure medical records—Store all medical bills, diagnostic reports, and receipts related to your treatment.

Notify Your Insurance Provider

• Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance—Depending on your policy, you might be able to file a claim for damages.
• Health insurance—Submit your medical expenses for coverage, although you may be reimbursed later if you win a legal case.

Follow Up

• Stay updated—Check in with law enforcement and the FAA for any progress on your case.
• Track ongoing medical issues—Continue documenting any ongoing pain, physical therapy, or emotional trauma resulting from the incident.

Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

A personal injury lawyer with the necessary experience, staff, and resources can help you understand your legal options, including potential claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. They can also evaluate potential negligence. If the drone operator violated FAA regulations or was engaged in reckless operation, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

If you or a loved one sustain a personal injury from a drone, contact the attorneys at LaSalvia Law. We will fight to win you the compensation you deserve.