Construction Law

3 Things to Consider Before Buying a Drone for Your Construction Projects featured image

3 Things to Consider Before Buying a Drone for Your Construction Projects

Drones are being used in construction projects to track job progress, inspect hard-to-reach areas and monitor safety compliance. This high resolution technology provides an unmanned aerial view with minimal user requirement. To learn more about the legal use of drones on construction sites, our team of Florida construction attorneys have provided three things to consider before buying a drone for your construction project.

Do you have the time for a drone?

Whoever operates the drone will have to learn the rules of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the operating rules of the specific drone. There are copious amounts of drones on the market and you will need to do research on weight, price, speed, and live feed capabilities. Concerning weight, a compliant drone must weigh less than 55 pounds. The price of the drone can vary considerably. Drones are available in prices ranging from $500 to $5,000. Regarding speed, a drone is prohibited from flying faster than 100 mph.

Invest in Training

Consider that the operator must hold a remote pilot airman certificate or have direct supervision provided by someone with the certification. The FAA offers study guides to help applicants prepare but you should invest in training for safe takeoff-and-landing approaches, operation procedures, and utilizing the camera equipment.

Can You Afford an Insurance Policy?

An insurance policy to cover liability related to the drone covers liability up to $1 million and ranges from $800-1,000 a year. If there is loss of consciousness or property damage of $500 or more, you must report to the FAA within 10 days of any serious injury. Drone liability insurance covers loss or damage to the equipment, the operators and members of your crew; third-party legal liability, the premises, and personal injury.

Before you are issued coverage a broker will need to know the following things:

  • Do you own or lease the drone?
  • How much experience does your drone operator have?
  • What are the FAA airman ratings of the drone operator?
  • Will you be keeping a maintenance log on the drone?

To schedule a consultation with a Florida construction attorney, please call us today at 813.579.3278 or submit our consultation request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.