can i buy insurance on my drone after having accident
Can I Buy Insurance on My Drone After Having an Accident?
Drones have become increasingly popular, not only for recreational use but also for professional purposes like aerial photography and surveying. However, accidents can happen, leaving drone owners wondering if they can purchase insurance or a warranty after an incident occurs. Let’s dive into this topic and explore the options available.
Insurance and Warranties: Understanding the Basics
When it comes to protecting your drone, there are two main options:
- Warranty Coverage (e.g., DJI Care Refresh): These typically cover repairs or replacements due to accidental damage during the warranty period.
- Drone Insurance: This includes liability insurance for third-party damages, as well as coverage for loss, theft, or accidental damage.
Post-Accident Insurance or Warranties
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Warranties: Companies like DJI only allow you to purchase their Care Refresh plan under specific conditions, such as within 48 hours of activating a new drone or after passing a thorough verification process to prove the drone is undamaged and fully functional.
- Example: If your drone has already been in an accident, companies are unlikely to offer warranty coverage retroactively. For instance, as per DJI's policy, they require a fully functional device at the time of warranty purchase.
- Insurance: Unlike warranties, some third-party insurance providers may allow you to buy coverage after an accident. However, they will not cover pre-existing damages or incidents that occurred prior to the policy’s activation. Attempting to claim for a past accident could be considered insurance fraud.
Options for Crashed Drones
If you've already had an accident, here are your best options:
1. Repair Services
Most drone manufacturers, including DJI, offer repair services for drones damaged in accidents. While this may not be covered under warranty, these services ensure your drone is repaired to a safe and operational condition.
- Tip: Always send your drone to an authorized service center to ensure quality repairs and maintain eligibility for future warranties.
2. Third-Party Insurance
If you’re looking for insurance after an accident, here’s what you need to know:
- Pre-existing Damage: Insurance won’t cover issues that occurred before the policy started.
- Liability-Only Plans: Some plans focus on liability insurance, covering damages your drone might cause to others but not your own drone.
- Recommended Providers: Companies like SkyWatch.AI or the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) offer insurance tailored for drone pilots.
Tips to Protect Your Drone in the Future
- Purchase Insurance Early: Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Third-party insurance plans are often inexpensive, with liability coverage starting as low as $5–$10 per month.
- Check Local Laws: In some countries, like Germany or the UK, drone liability insurance is mandatory for drones over 250 grams.
- Invest in a Warranty: If you buy a new drone, consider purchasing the manufacturer’s warranty (like DJI Care Refresh) during the activation period. These plans can save significant repair costs.
Drone Insurance for Liability and Beyond
For those who regularly use drones, especially in populated areas, liability insurance is critical. For example:
- SkyWatch.AI offers coverage for physical damage, theft, and liability.
- Household Insurance Extensions: In some countries like Australia or Switzerland, drones may be covered under household liability insurance. Always check with your provider to confirm.
For those looking to upgrade their anti-drone systems or learn more about safety measures, consider exploring anti-drone devices to prevent interference or accidents caused by nearby drones.
Conclusion
While you cannot typically buy a warranty or insurance to retroactively cover a drone accident, there are still options to repair your device and secure coverage for future use. The key is to act proactively—purchase a warranty or insurance policy before an accident occurs, ensuring peace of mind while flying. For those who regularly use drones in professional settings, liability insurance is a must-have, providing coverage against third-party damages and protecting your investment.