Majority of survey respondents concerned about property damage risk from unmanned aerial vehicles

Nearly three in four respondents to a survey commissioned by insurance firm The Chubb Corp. said they were concerned that unmanned aerial vehicles could damage property and the majority do not want businesses operating drones.

Warren, N.J.-based Chubb announced Monday the results of the survey, of 1,000 adults, conducted by ORC International.

“Close to three-fourths (73%) of survey respondents are concerned that drones could damage property by crashing into a house,” Chubb stated in a release. “Fifty-five percent said drones could injure people by poking out an eye or cutting a finger.”

Two-thirds of respondents “do not think that private citizens should be allowed to operate a drone even if they hold a permit,” Chubb noted. “Sixty-four percent do not want businesses to use drones.”

“Respondents appear much more comfortable with the use of drones by people in positions of authority, including law enforcement (66%) and the military (86%),” stated Christie Alderman, vice president of Chubb Personal Insurance. “They also see the benefits of humanitarian uses, such as the delivery of emergency medical aid (80%).”

The property & casualty carriers known informally as The Chubb Group of Companies include Chubb Insurance Company of Canada, Federal Insurance Company, Pacific Indemnity Company, Executive Risk Indemnity Inc., Executive Risk Specialty Insurance Company, Great Northern Insurance Company and Vigilant Insurance Company.

Canadian Forces members prepare an unmanned aerial vehicle for flight on the deck of Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Regina, during counter-terrorism and maritime security operations in the Arabian Sea. Photo by Cpl Michael Bastien, Canadian Forces. 

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