Collision Between Bird and DJI Drone Results in Commercial Vehicle Damage

A commercial moving truck sustained damage in Georgetown, South Carolina, after an airborne incident involving a DJI drone and a bird led to an unexpected collision. The incident, reported to Georgetown Police Department, occurred near 1245 North Fraser Street when the drone experienced an unplanned disassembly following its encounter with the bird.

According to police reports, the drone’s impact caused approximately $1,200 in damage to the truck’s driver-side box panel, including a significant scratch and paint removal. The incident highlights growing concerns about drone operation in commercial areas and the potential risks of unmanned aerial vehicle failures.

While DJI drones typically incorporate various safety features, including obstacle avoidance systems, this incident demonstrates that unexpected environmental factors can still lead to equipment failures and property damage. The case raises questions about liability and insurance coverage in drone-related accidents, particularly as commercial drone usage continues to expand.

It appears that the DJI drone was not outfitted with an emergency parachute system to allow for a controlled descent.

This event occurs amid increasing discussion about drone safety regulations and the need for enhanced protocols in urban and commercial zones. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains strict guidelines for drone operation in populated areas, though incidents like this underscore the challenges of managing interactions between unmanned aircraft and both Wildlife and ground-based vehicles.