New Coverage Helps Farmers Manage Drone Risks And Protect Valuable Equipment
The use of drones in agriculture is growing quickly as farmers adopt new technologies to improve efficiency and productivity. Drones are widely used for crop monitoring, livestock tracking, field mapping, and precision applications. As this trend continues, a new insurance solution has been introduced to support farmers.
Nationwide has launched a drone insurance package designed specifically for farm operations. This coverage aims to protect farmers from risks associated with drone use, while supporting the safe use of this advanced technology.
Drones are becoming an important investment on farms. Smaller drones used for scouting and mapping may cost several thousand dollars, while larger spraying or seeding drones can cost more than $30,000. Because of this high value, farmers need proper protection beyond traditional farm insurance policies.
The new insurance package offers a comprehensive solution. It includes coverage for physical damage to the drone, liability protection for damage or injury, and protection for aerial applications involving chemicals or seeds. These features help address risks that are not usually included in standard farm policies.
Operating drones also involves certain requirements. Farmers may need certification from aviation authorities, pesticide licenses, specialized training, and must follow strict safety rules. These factors increase the complexity and risk of drone operations.
Drone use can create new risks for farms. Issues such as chemical drift, overspray, or equipment failure can lead to crop damage, property loss, or injury. Operator errors may also result in unexpected liability.
“The use of drones across agriculture has grown significantly, increasing the need for protection that addresses both the value of the equipment and the risks tied to operating it,” said Justin Owens, AVP of Farm Underwriting & Sales, Nationwide.
He continued, “We’re proud to begin offering these new coverage options, which help give farmers confidence to incorporate drone technology into their operations while knowing they have protection in place if something goes wrong.”
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