Commercial Drone Insurance: How to Protect Your Business

With the increasing popularity of drones in commercial use, more and more businesses are relying on these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to improve their operations. From construction companies to agriculture businesses, drones are being used to inspect properties, survey land, and deliver goods. However, with the rise of drones comes the need for commercial drone insurance. In this article, we will discuss the importance of commercial drone insurance, what it covers, and how to obtain it.

What is Commercial Drone Insurance?

Commercial drone insurance is a specialized type of insurance that provides coverage for businesses that use drones for commercial purposes. It protects against liabilities or damages caused by drones, including bodily injury, property damage, and invasion of privacy.

Most standard liability insurance policies don’t cover drone-related incidents, so it’s important for businesses to obtain commercial drone insurance to ensure they are protected in case of an accident.

What Does Commercial Drone Insurance Cover?

Commercial drone insurance typically covers the following:

Coverage
Description
Bodily Injury
Covers injuries caused by drones to people on the ground or in the air.
Third-Party Property Damage
Covers damages caused by drones to other people’s property, such as cars, buildings, or crops.
Invasion of Privacy
Covers damages resulting from a drone’s invasion of personal privacy, such as taking pictures or videos of people without their consent.
Collision Loss/Damage
Covers damages resulting from a drone collision, such as with another drone or obstacle.
Equipment Loss/Damage
Covers damages or loss of the drone itself or any equipment attached to it, such as cameras or sensors.

What Isn’t Covered by Commercial Drone Insurance?

Commercial drone insurance typically doesn’t cover intentional harm or illegal activities. It also may not cover drone-related incidents that occur outside of the policyholder’s specified geographic area or outside of specified operating hours.

How to Obtain Commercial Drone Insurance

There are a variety of options when it comes to obtaining commercial drone insurance. Here are some of the most common ways:

Specialty Insurance Providers

There are several specialty insurance providers that offer commercial drone insurance policies. These providers typically have experience working with drones and can provide customized policies tailored to the specific risks of your business.

General Insurance Providers

Some general insurance providers may also offer commercial drone insurance as an add-on to their existing policies. However, it’s important to ensure that the policy covers all the necessary risks associated with using drones for commercial purposes.

Through a Drone Manufacturer

Some drone manufacturers may offer commercial drone insurance as part of their products or services. This can be a convenient option, but it’s important to carefully review the policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage.

FAQs About Commercial Drone Insurance

1. What is the Cost of Commercial Drone Insurance?

The cost of commercial drone insurance varies depending on a variety of factors, including the size of the drone, the type of work being done, and the level of coverage desired. Policies can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per year.

2. Is There a Legal Requirement for Commercial Drone Insurance?

While there is no federal requirement for commercial drone insurance, some states or municipalities may require it. Additionally, some clients or contracts may require proof of insurance before allowing a business to use drones for their services.

3. What is the Process for Filing a Claim?

If an incident occurs that may be covered by commercial drone insurance, the policyholder should contact their insurance provider immediately to report the claim. The provider will then investigate the incident and determine if it falls within the policy’s coverage. If so, the policyholder may receive compensation for damages or liability claims.

4. Are There Any Restrictions on Where Drones Can be Flown?

Yes, there are restrictions on where drones can be flown, which may vary depending on the type of drone and the area in which it is being used. It’s important for businesses to understand and adhere to these restrictions to avoid potential legal and financial consequences.

5. How Often Should I Review and Update My Commercial Drone Insurance Policy?

It’s important to review and update your commercial drone insurance policy regularly, especially if your business’s drone use changes or expands. This ensures that you are adequately covered for all the risks associated with your current drone operations.

In summary, commercial drone insurance is essential for businesses that use drones for their operations. It provides protection against a variety of risks and liabilities, ensuring that businesses can operate confidently and safely. By understanding what commercial drone insurance covers, how to obtain it, and FAQs about it, businesses can ensure that they have the right coverage to meet their needs.