Remote-controlled UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems), or drones to you and me, continue to grow in popularity at a phenomenal rate and their widespread use raises many questions. Because of their nature and use, drones are prone to many mishaps and damage, loss or theft is a growing problem.

So what happens if your drone doesn’t follow its designated flight path and causes some damage to a neighbor’s house or car? Are you legally liable for injury to a third party if your craft dive-bombs a passer-by? Can you claim compensation if your expensive toy is hijacked by some drone-hater in the local park?

In short, do you have New Jersey Homeowners Insurance with drones from newjersey-insurance.net covered for all eventualities?

Yes and No

As drones used for recreational purposes are classified as radio-controlled aircraft, they are generally regarded the same as any model airplane and most household insurance policies would cover them for loss, theft and damage. However, and it is a big “however”, if you are using UAS for commercial purposes (an aerial photography service for example) then a legal exemption will be required to fly the drone and, if granted, separate insurance requirements will apply.

Other difficulties may arise with your insurance provider if your drone is involved in, or causes, a serious accident which results in property damage or injury to a person. These eventualities may not be covered in your policy or, if they are, may be limited to a very small pay-out leaving you liable for huge damages.

New Jersey Homeowners Insurance with Drones – The Small Print

Before any incidents with your drone have the chance to occur, you should consult your insurance company, clear up any doubts you may have and clarify even the smallest details. You may be pleasantly surprised at what is covered in your homeowners policy but you may also be shocked to discover what is not. Clarify all details and eventualities with your broker before it is too late.

As most drones nowadays are equipped with cameras, another important item to consider is the invasion of privacy issue. Although your intentions may be entirely honest and honorable, a sunbathing neighbor or nature lovers on a beach may not take too kindly to being snapped from above and court cases have already been filed for both of the above examples. Your normal policy will probably not cover you in these cases despite your protestations of innocence.

Ref: https://newjersey-insurance.net/homeowners-insurance/new-jersey-homeowner-insurance-with-drones/

Unique New Jersey

The problem of acquiring New Jersey Homeowners insurance with drones sufficiently covered may be a thing of the past. Uniquely, at least to date, New Jersey has introduced new legislation that requires all drone operators to take out liability insurance policies with the Transportation Department. Standard insurance forms have also been drafted for insurance companies as it is expected that some form of separate insurance for UAS will soon become mandatory throughout the United States.

To paraphrase the old saying “there are only two certainties in this world: death and taxes” to which I would add a third certainty “drone insurance”. It’s only a matter of time!

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