Drones—also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)—have moved beyond hobbyist gadgets and into everyday life. They’re used in photography, delivery services, real estate, agriculture, and even security. But as the skies grow more crowded, so do the risks. Drone accidents can cause serious injuries, property damage, and privacy violations, raising complex legal questions about liability and compensation.
At Alan Ripka & Associates, we help victims navigate this emerging legal landscape. Whether you were hit by a drone at a public event, injured by falling debris, or harmed during a commercial shoot, understanding your rights is critical. This blog explains who may be held responsible, how fault is determined, and what legal steps you can take if you’ve been injured by a drone.
The Growing Problem of Drone-Related Injuries
In recent years, the number of drone-related incidents has increased dramatically. With more affordable models and wider access, thousands of untrained operators are now flying drones over public spaces.
Common causes of drone accidents include:
- Pilot error or negligence, such as losing control due to poor training or distraction.
- Mechanical failure, where defective parts or design flaws cause crashes.
- Battery malfunctions, leading to sudden drops or explosions.
- Signal interference, resulting in loss of communication between controller and drone.
- Unauthorized flights in restricted or crowded areas, such as parks, stadiums, or city streets.
While small drones may seem harmless, their propellers, cameras, and lithium batteries can cause lacerations, burns, or concussions upon impact. In severe cases, victims suffer eye injuries, head trauma, or permanent scarring.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Drone Injury?
Determining liability in drone-related personal injury cases can be challenging. Depending on how and why the drone caused harm, several parties could be responsible.
1. The Drone Operator
Most commonly, the person controlling the drone is held liable. Operators have a legal duty of care to use the device safely and in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
If they flew recklessly—too close to people, vehicles, or private property—they could be found negligent. Liability increases if the operator ignored safety warnings or failed to maintain proper control.
2. The Drone Owner or Employer
If the drone was operated on behalf of a company—for example, a real estate firm filming an aerial view or a delivery service—the employer may share or assume liability under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, which holds employers accountable for employee actions performed in the course of work.
This means even if the individual operator made the mistake, the company’s insurance policy may be responsible for covering your damages.
3. The Drone Manufacturer or Retailer
Some drone accidents occur not because of user negligence, but due to defective design or malfunctioning parts. Faulty batteries, broken propellers, or inadequate software systems can all lead to crashes.
In these cases, victims may pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor for releasing a dangerous or defective product.
4. Event Organizers or Property Owners
If a drone injury occurs at an organized event—like a wedding, concert, or corporate gathering—the event organizers or venue owners may also be partially responsible. They have an obligation to ensure safety by enforcing drone policies and maintaining a secure environment for guests.
Proving Negligence in a Drone Injury Case
To win a drone-related personal injury claim, your attorney must prove that someone’s negligence caused your injury. This typically involves establishing four elements:
- Duty of Care – The operator or entity had a responsibility to use the drone safely.
- Breach of Duty – They acted carelessly or ignored safety protocols.
- Causation – Their actions directly caused your injury.
- Damages – You suffered measurable harm, such as medical bills or emotional distress.
Evidence often includes video footage, witness statements, FAA flight logs, and maintenance records. Drones themselves sometimes store flight data that can be retrieved to reconstruct what went wrong.
An experienced law firm like Alan Ripka & Associates can investigate all angles of liability, consult aviation experts, and ensure the responsible party is held accountable.
FAA Regulations and How They Affect Your Case
The FAA has strict rules for drone operation, even for recreational users. Common regulations include:
- Keeping drones below 400 feet.
- Maintaining line-of-sight at all times.
- Avoiding flight over crowds, stadiums, and airports.
- Registering drones that weigh more than 0.55 pounds.
- Avoiding use during restricted hours or in bad weather.
If an operator violated these rules, their actions can be used as strong evidence of negligence. In some cases, FAA violations may also lead to criminal penalties, especially if the drone endangered public safety.
Common Injuries in Drone Accidents
Drone accidents can result in a surprising range of injuries—many of them serious enough to require long-term care. Victims often experience:
- Facial cuts or lacerations from spinning propellers
- Eye damage or vision loss
- Head trauma or concussions
- Neck and back injuries from impact
- Burns caused by overheating batteries
- Psychological distress or post-traumatic anxiety
Even minor injuries can lead to medical costs, lost work time, and ongoing pain. A successful personal injury claim can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical bills and future care
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
Commercial Drone Use: Higher Risks, Higher Responsibility
Commercial drone operations come with additional layers of regulation and insurance coverage. Companies using drones for photography, delivery, or inspection services must comply with Part 107 FAA licensing requirements and often carry commercial liability insurance.
However, not all do—and when corners are cut, the results can be devastating. If you were injured by a commercial drone, your attorney can help determine whether the company:
- Failed to obtain proper FAA certification,
- Used unlicensed or untrained operators,
- Ignored local ordinances or safety warnings, or
- Used defective or poorly maintained drones.
These details can significantly impact your claim’s value and help establish corporate negligence.
Steps to Take After a Drone Injury
If you’ve been injured by a drone—whether recreational or commercial—taking immediate action is crucial:
- Seek medical attention right away, even for minor injuries.
- Document everything—photos of the scene, drone, injuries, and any property damage.
- Identify the operator if possible. Note the drone’s appearance, location, or company branding.
- File a police or FAA report, especially if the drone was operated illegally.
- Consult a personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.
Evidence fades quickly, and drone operators often disappear before liability can be established. Acting quickly protects your rights.
Conclusion:
Drone technology is exciting—but it also brings new dangers. When drones fall, crash, or collide, they can cause real physical and emotional harm. Victims should not be left to bear the costs of someone else’s negligence or corporate shortcuts.
At Alan Ripka & Associates, we’ve handled complex personal injury cases involving cutting-edge technology and evolving regulations. Our legal team knows how to navigate FAA rules, gather forensic drone data, and hold both individuals and corporations accountable.
Whether your injury occurred at a public event, on private property, or during a commercial operation, you may be entitled to compensation.
📞 Call us today at (212) 661-7010 or visit AlanRipka.com to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
We’ll help you understand your options—and ensure that justice takes flight on your behalf.
