If you were harmed because of a drone-related accident in Central Florida, you have the right to file a claim for damages. While an individual drone may seem small, especially when it is high in the air, a malfunction can have devastating effects.
A drone show incident at Lake Eola in late 2024 shows that drones and other controlled flying objects do pose a risk to onlookers or other people who have the misfortune of standing in the wrong place at the wrong time. The holiday show in Lake Eola saw multiple drones out of about 500 fall from the sky and hit spectators, include a 7-year-old boy who had to undergo serious surgery and other critical medical treatment.
With their rising popularity, it is worth asking the question of whether you could file a personal injury lawsuit for damages due to drone negligence. The short answer is: yes, you certainly can! Our Orlando drone injury lawyer dives into this question so you understand your rights and legal options in the event you are hurt from one of these devices.
The possibility of getting hurt by a drone is extremely low, despite some high-profile incidents. However, with more and more hobbyists taking to the skies to capture footage in Florida, combined with so-called expert displays and productions, the risk is increasing. Equipment malfunctions and operator errors could cause serious harm if it strikes someone in the crowd. These quick-moving aircraft can cause numerous injuries with their rotating blades and sharp edges, like lacerations, contusions, abrasion, and strains, in addition to traumatic brain injuries. No matter who was at fault for a drone accident, our Orlando attorneys help you identify the liable parties and hold them accountable.
Under Florida Statutes § 768.81, the drone operator is typically held liable for any injuries they cause, if they failed to act with reasonable care. Even if the owner was not operating the aircraft, they could still be held partially liable for a lawsuit due to drone negligence, because they allowed someone to fly their drone without proper training. The drone’s manufacturer could also be named in a suit under product liability laws if the machine was defective. Event organizers also have a responsibility to oversee safety at a drone show and therefore may also share in the legal responsibility.
Most Florida’s homeowner’s insurance covers injuries caused by a hobby or model aircraft, like personal drones, when it is used recreationally. These policies would likely pay for damages like medical bills, property damage, and legal expenses. However, this coverage varies based on the circumstances, especially if it is being operated commercially. Our Orlando lawyers can talk with you after a drone-related injury and discuss whether you can make an insurance claim or hold someone accountable through legal action.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported a total of 800,000 registered drones across the U.S. This governmental agency prohibits pilots from operating drones after dark, in populated areas, or in a reckless manner. Florida Statutes § 934.50 also states that drones cannot be used to invade your privacy, so if this is a relevant factor in your case, our Orlando-area attorneys could use this to substantiate your claim.
If you have any questions about filing a lawsuit for injuries due to drone negligence, contact The Umansky Law Firm today. Our Orlando drone accident lawyers know how to construct your case using available evidence, state laws, and the damages that you are seeking. Whether it was controlled by an individual hobbyist or was part of a larger commercial performance, a drone should not cause you physical pain and financial distress.
Call us for a free consultation and learn why so many have chosen The Umansky Law Firm to represent them in their pursuit of compensation.
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