aerial-decisions

Author: Jim Gibson

Flying Witnesses: How Drones are Transforming Personal Injury Litigation
Drones are used more frequently in personal injury cases, driven in large part by their ability to provide comprehensive, efficient, and objective evidence, ultimately facilitating fair and informed legal proceedings. Drones are, no doubt, transforming personal injury litigation in tangible ways.

In the past, personal injury lawyers had to rely on traditional methods of collecting evidence, such as photographs, videos, and eyewitness testimony. However, drones can provide a much more comprehensive and accurate view of the accident scene. Drones can be used to take aerial photographs and videos of the scene, which can be used to show the exact location of the accident, the vehicles involved, and the injuries sustained. Drones are also used to fly over difficult-to-reach areas, such as rooftops and cliffs, which can be important in cases where the accident occurred in a dangerous location.

How Drones are Shaping the Future of Personal Injury Case Investigations

Roads Can be Complex to Navigate and Inattentive Drivers Can Cause Accidents

Accident Scene Documentation

Drones are used to document accident scenes in personal injury cases. By capturing high-resolution aerial photographs and videos, drones provide a comprehensive visual representation of the scene, including factors such as road conditions, traffic patterns, and environmental factors. This evidence can be crucial in determining liability and assessing the extent of injuries sustained.

Surveillance and Reconstruction

Drones equipped with advanced imaging technology, such as thermal cameras or LiDAR sensors, are used to conduct surveillance and accident reconstruction in personal injury cases. These drones can capture detailed data on the scene, including 3D models, measurements, and point clouds, which help in analyzing the sequence of events and identifying any contributing factors to the accident.

Commercial Drones are Capable of Sophisticated Photogrammetry and Data Collection.

Property Inspections

Drones are employed to conduct aerial inspections of properties in personal injury cases involving premises liability. By flying over the premises, drones can identify hazardous conditions such as inadequate lighting, structural defects, or unsafe premises that may have contributed to the injury. The aerial perspective offered by drones can provide valuable evidence to support a plaintiff’s claim.

PI Cases That Used Drones for Accident Documentation

Blount v. United Airlines

This case involved a passenger who was injured when she was hit by a piece of luggage that fell from an overhead bin on a United Airlines flight. The passenger sued United Airlines, and the case went to trial. During the trial, the passenger’s attorney presented drone footage of the inside of the plane, which showed that the overhead bins were not properly secured. The jury found in favor of the passenger and awarded her damages.

Hannon v. City of San Diego

This case involved a pedestrian who was injured when she was struck by a car while crossing the street. The pedestrian sued the City of San Diego, alleging that the city was negligent in maintaining the crosswalk. The city argued that the pedestrian was not crossing the street in a safe manner. During the trial, the pedestrian’s attorney presented drone footage of the crosswalk, which showed that the city had not properly marked the crosswalk. The jury found in favor of the pedestrian and awarded her damages.

Zhu v. Amazon.com

This case involved a delivery driver who was injured when he was struck by a car while delivering a package. The delivery driver sued Amazon.com, alleging that Amazon was negligent in failing to properly supervise the driver. Amazon argued that the driver was not following company policy at the time of the accident. During the trial, Amazon presented drone footage of the delivery driver’s route, which showed that the driver was not following company policy. The jury found in favor of Amazon and dismissed the driver’s lawsuit.

Summary

These are just a few examples of how drone photography has been used to assist in personal injury cases. Hiring a licensed Drone Service Provider allows law firms to capture valuable evidence that can help to prove a case or defend against a claim. If you have been injured in an accident, you should speak to a personal injury attorney about whether or not using a drone to collect evidence is right for your case.

These three cases highlight the use of drone photography as a valuable tool in personal injury trials, providing visual evidence from unique vantage points that can strengthen the arguments of both plaintiffs and defendants.

If you have been injured in an accident, you should speak to a personal injury lawyer about whether or not using a drone to collect evidence is right for your case. If you are an attorney and are interested in learning more about how drones are transforming personal injury litigation, feel free to contact Aerial Decisions for a free drone services case evaluation.

Sources for the cases mentioned in this post:
- Blount v. United Airlines, No. 15-cv-05190-LHK (N.D. Cal. filed Mar. 16, 2015).
- Hannon v. City of San Diego, No. 37-2016-00017015-CU-BT-CTL (Super. Ct. San Diego County filed Jan. 25, 2016).
- Zhu v. Amazon.com, No. 37-2017-00032342-CU-BT-CTL (Super. Ct. San Diego County filed Mar. 15, 2017).
From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months.

If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.
June 15, 2023
5 Benefits of Using Drones for Commercial Building Facade Inspections

Drone data collection services provide a reliable and efficient method for inspecting commercial building facades, offering numerous benefits that enhance worker safety, save costs, expedite deliverables, optimize manpower allocation, and keep key stakeholders informed and engaged.

In this blog post, we explore these key advantages and showcase the impact of drone inspections through an actual construction defect legal case.

Advantages of Using Drones for Commercial Building Facade Inspections

Improve Worker Safety

Traditional methods of inspecting commercial building facades involve manual labor, often requiring workers to use scaffolding or suspended platforms. These methods can pose significant risks, including falls and accidents. By using drones, building owners and inspectors can eliminate or significantly reduce the need for workers to access dangerous heights, thereby improving worker safety and reducing potential injuries or accidents.

Cost Savings

Drone data collection services offer cost savings in multiple ways. Drones can capture high-resolution images and videos, eliminating the need for expensive equipment such as scaffolding, high-reach cranes or helicopters. Additionally, drone inspections are more time-efficient, reducing labor costs associated with extended inspection periods. By providing accurate and comprehensive data, drones help identify issues early on, preventing costly repairs and minimizing long-term maintenance expenses.

Commercial Building Facade – East Corner Inspection

Speed of Deliverables

Drone inspections enable rapid data collection and analysis. In the past, commercial building owners used scaffolding and time intensive labor to log building inspections. Drones can capture detailed images and videos of building facades efficiently and at high speed. What used to take a week or more, drone data can be processed quickly and turned into actionable insights, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions promptly. This swift turnaround time accelerates the entire inspection process, enabling building owners to address any identified issues promptly.

Manpower Allocation

Using drones for building facade inspections allows for optimal allocation of manpower. Instead of dedicating a significant number of workers to perform manual inspections, these resources can be redirected to other crucial tasks, such as maintenance, repairs, or specialized assessments. By streamlining the inspection process, drone data collection services help organizations allocate their workforce more efficiently, saving time and resources.

Engaging Key Stakeholders

Drone inspections facilitate effective communication and engagement among key stakeholders. The comprehensive visual data captured by drones provides a clear understanding of the building’s condition, making it easier to communicate potential issues to internal teams, building owners, insurers, and external contractors. This transparency will help to foster collaboration and ensure all stakeholders are well-informed and engaged throughout the inspection and maintenance processes.

Construction Defect Cases on the Rise

Design defects and poor workmanship have risen to become leading causes of engineering claims. Defective products are the single biggest source of engineering claims by frequency, and the second largest by severity, according to AGCS claims analysis. Accounting for 27% of engineering claims, there are almost three times as many defective products claims as storm claims, the next largest cause of engineering claims by frequency.

Commercial buildings often have hard to reach places that make facade inspections difficult and time consuming. Compared to more frequently used manual visual inspections, using drones for commercial building facade Inspections can more easily capture high-resolution images and videos, which can be used to create detailed reports of the defects. Drone data is objective and impartial, which can help to persuade a jury.

Drones Aid a Construction Defect Claim

A homeowners association representing a residential development of more than 100 homes filed a construction defect claim against the home builder, a UAV/Drone Service Provider was enlisted to document several construction defects relating to the work of the roofer, including damaged/broken roof tiles, overexposure at rakes and ridges, and liquefaction of self-adhesive flashing.

High-resolution photos and videos captured by the aerial survey revealed the extent of the damages, thus, a time consuming and costly manual inspection was avoided and the high resolution drone data ultimately led the two sides to agree to a fair settlement.

Drone data collection services have become a game-changer for commercial building facade inspections. By leveraging drones, building owners and inspectors can benefit from improved worker safety, cost savings, expedited deliverables, optimized manpower allocation, and better engagement with key stakeholders. The construction defect case outlined above demonstrates the significant impact of drone inspections in legal proceedings, providing compelling evidence to support claims and, in many cases, leads to equitable outcomes.

From The Editor

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months.

If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

June 12, 2023
Embracing Drone Tech in Commercial Building Construction

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation is the key to success. One such innovation that has revolutionized various industries, including commercial building construction, is drone technology. Drones offer tremendous potential to improve productivity, enhance internal and external communications, ensure worker safety, and maximize overall return on investment (ROI) for each construction project.

However, convincing internal teams to embrace this transformative technology requires a mindset change. In this blog post, we will explore the five key ways to effect a mindset change within your commercial building construction company and highlight the considerations that are crucial to the successful implementation of a drone monitoring program.

Educate and Demonstrate the Benefits

To convince internal teams of the value of drone technology, it is essential to educate them about its potential benefits. Provide clear examples and case studies that showcase how drones can improve productivity, streamline workflows, and deliver accurate data for informed decision-making. For example, your firms Purchasing Manager can utilize aerial data captured by a drone to quickly evaluate existing site material stockpiles so that replenishing needed supplies keeps projects on time and within budget. Equipment theft is an unfortunate reality for construction GMs but drones are able to provide near-time aerial monitoring to minimize the risk of equipment loss. Demonstrating the cost-effectiveness, time-saving capabilities, and improved quality assurance that drones bring to the construction process will help stakeholders understand the value of adopting drone technology.

Co-Workers Engineering Business Solutions at an Internal Meeting

Address Concerns and Misconceptions

Change often meets resistance due to fears and misconceptions. Addressing these concerns head-on is crucial to fostering a positive mindset shift. Common concerns may include job security, privacy, and the perceived complexity of implementing drone technology. Provide transparent and well-researched responses, emphasizing the fact that drones are tools that enhance human capabilities rather than replacing them.

One notable historical reference that illustrates concerns about new tools potentially replacing jobs is the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries and the 19th century British Luddites. During this transformative period, significant advancements in machinery and automation revolutionized various industries, particularly in manufacturing and textiles. Luddite workers were concerned about, among other things, job security. In the end, while some jobs were impacted, the Industrial Revolution also created new employment opportunities and ultimately led to overall economic growth and higher living standards.

Assure employees that proper guidelines and regulations are in place to protect privacy and security.

Internal Teams Working Together Creates the Opportunity for Better Business Outcomes

Foster Collaboration and Training

To effectively adopt drone technology, collaboration across departments and training programs are vital. Encourage cross-functional teams to work together to understand the specific requirements and opportunities drones can provide. Create training programs to ensure employees feel confident and empowered when using this technology. By involving employees in the decision-making process and providing them with the necessary skills, you can build a sense of ownership and enthusiasm for drone integration.

Staff Member Presenting to Internal Business Teams

Showcase Success Stories

One of the most powerful ways to effect a mindset change is by showcasing success stories from within the industry. Highlight how other commercial building construction companies have successfully implemented drone technology and reaped the rewards. Share testimonials, construction drone use case studies, and ROI analyses to inspire your internal teams and demonstrate that embracing drones is not just a trend but a proven strategy for growth and efficiency.

Continuously Adapt and Improve

Lastly, fostering a mindset change requires an ongoing commitment to adapt and improve. Encourage feedback and suggestions from your teams as they begin to utilize drone technology. Actively listen to their experiences and concerns and incorporate their insights into the implementation process. This iterative approach will not only address any challenges but also enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the technology, creating a culture of continuous improvement.

The construction industry is poised to embrace the transformative power of drone technology. By effecting a mindset change within your commercial building construction company, you can unlock a multitude of benefits, including improved productivity, enhanced internal and external communications, increased worker safety, and a significant boost to overall company ROI. By educating, addressing concerns, fostering collaboration, showcasing success stories, and committing to continuous improvement, you can pave the way for a successful integration of drones into your organization’s operations. Embrace the potential of drone technology and take your commercial building construction company to new heights.

From The Editor

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months.

If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

June 8, 2023
Benefits of Using 360 Virtual Tours in Commercial Construction
As a drone service provider focused on providing digital data collection solutions to the construction industry, we know that timely communication between the field and key stakeholders is critical to keeping commercial construction projects on time and within budget. Just as we need to be able to keep our clients informed of the progress of the project, construction project managers need to be able to get feedback from key stakeholders on the design and construction of the building.

In the past, most GMs have used traditional methods of communication, such as email, phone calls, and meetings. However, most have found that these methods can be time-consuming and inefficient. For example, it can be difficult to convey the progress of a project through email or phone calls. And, meetings can be disruptive to the workflow of the project team. (Ahem, who needs another meeting, right?)

Using 360 Virtual Tours to Keep Stakeholders Engaged

Recently, we have started using 360 virtual walking tours to allow our clients to communicate internal clients and key stakeholders. These tours allow GMs to give them a virtual tour of the construction site, so they can see the progress of the project for themselves. This has been a great way to keep Aerial Decision’s clients informed and engaged in the project.

What are 360 Virtual Walking Tours?

360 virtual tours are interactive experiences that allow users to explore a location or building in a 360-degree view. They are typically accessed through a web browser using 3rd party software such as Drone Deploy and Pix4D (among others) and can be used for a variety of purposes, including marketing, education, and documentation. To create a 360 virtual tour, a series of panoramic photos or videos are captured and stitched together to create a seamless, immersive experience. Alternatively, a 3D model of the location or building can be created and rendered in a 360-degree view using computer-generated imagery (CGI).

360 Effects on a Construction Site

Benefits of using 360 virtual walking tours in commercial building construction projects:
- Improve communication
360 virtual walking tours can improve communication between the project team, the client, and the stakeholders. This is because they allow everyone involved in the project to see the progress of the project for themselves. This can help to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
- Increase engagement
360 virtual walking tours can increase engagement with clients and stakeholders. This is because they allow them to feel like they are part of the project. They can see the progress of the project and provide feedback on the design and construction of the building. This feedback can be invaluable to the project team.
- Reduce costs
360 virtual walking tours can reduce costs associated with communication. This is because they eliminate the need for travel and meetings. This can save the project team time and money.

If you are a commercial building construction project manager, we encourage you to consider using 360 virtual walking tours to communicate with your clients and stakeholders. They can be a valuable tool that can help you improve communication, increase engagement, and reduce costs.
- Increase Safety
Virtual 360 walking tours allow you to create a comprehensive digital representation of the construction site, providing a realistic view of the environment. This enables workers to identify potential hazards, such as uneven surfaces, obstructions, or unsafe working conditions, before they physically enter the site. By identifying hazards in advance, workers can take appropriate precautions and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Additional tips for creating effective 360 virtual walking tours for commercial building construction projects:
- Make sure the tours are high quality. The images and videos should be clear and in focus.
- Include all the important areas of the construction site. This includes the interior and exterior of the building, as well as any surrounding areas.
- Use clear and concise language to describe the features of the building.
- Add interactive elements to the tours, such as hotspots that allow viewers to learn more about specific features of the building.
- Promote the tours to your clients and stakeholders. You can do this by adding them to your website, social media channels, and email marketing campaigns.
In summary, using 360 virtual walking tours showcases your construction project and offers a low cost and safe alternative to keeping internal clients and key stakeholders visually apprised of the construction projects progress.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider or 360 virtual walking tour for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.
June 4, 2023
Top 5 Technologies for Construction Project Managers

As the CEO of a drone data collection company, my goal is to look for ways to leverage emerging technologies that help commercial construction companies complete their projects on time and on budget. To achieve this, we rely on several technologies that enable us to collect, analyze, and share data with our clients efficiently. In this blog post, I will discuss the top five technologies that we use to accomplish our goals.

Commercial building construction

Top 5 Technologies for Construction Project Managers

Drones

You guessed it, Drones. Otherwise known as sUAS, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems are the primary technology that we use to collect data for construction projects. Drones allow us to capture high-resolution aerial imagery and 3D models of job sites quickly and safely. This technology helps us to identify potential issues and track progress throughout the construction process, allowing us to make adjustments in real-time. Drones can also cover a large area in a short amount of time, providing construction managers with a quick and efficient way to monitor progress. This saves time and allows construction managers to focus on other important tasks.

Drone Data Software

There are several drone data software options available, including Drone Deploy, Pix4D, Propeller, and Agisoft Metashape. Each of these software options has its own unique features, advantages, and disadvantages. For example, Drone Deploy offers a user-friendly interface and integrates with several other software options. Pix4D provides a more advanced photogrammetry solution and is best suited for large-scale projects. Propeller offers a cloud-based platform that allows for easy collaboration and sharing of data. Agisoft Metashape is a powerful solution that offers high-precision data processing and is best suited for complex projects. Regardless of the software option, drone data software enables us to process and analyze the data collected by our drones quickly and accurately, making it easier to identify potential issues and track progress.

Geographic Information System (GIS)

GIS technology allows us to overlay drone data on top of maps, creating a visual representation of the construction site. This technology enables us to identify potential issues and track progress in real-time. GIS also allows us to share data with our clients more efficiently, enabling them to make informed decisions about their projects.

Machine Learning

Machine learning technology allows us to analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately. This technology enables us to identify patterns and trends in the data, making it easier to identify potential issues and track progress. Machine learning also enables us to make more accurate predictions about project timelines and budgets, ensuring that our clients’ projects are completed on time and on budget.

3D Orthomosaic for Drone Construction Monitoring

Augmented Reality (AR)

AR technology enables us to create immersive, 3D simulations of construction projects. This technology allows us to visualize the project before it is built, making it easier to identify potential issues and make changes. AR also enables us to communicate more effectively with our clients, ensuring that everyone is on the same page throughout the project.

In conclusion, I believe that technology plays a crucial role in helping commercial construction companies complete their projects on time and on budget. By utilizing drones, drone data software, GIS, machine learning, and AR, drone service providers like Aerial Decisions can help improve on construction project efficiencies, reduce waste, and deliver construction project data that meet our clients’ needs. I am excited to continue to explore new technologies as they emerge and to use them to help our clients succeed in the future. As construction project managers, what technologies do you use to help you get your projects completed on time and on budget?

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

May 15, 2023
5 Types of Data Drones Commercial Land Developers Look For

As drone technology evolves, so too do the applications for which they can be used. One industry that has been particularly impacted by the use of drones is commercial land development. As the commercial construction industry is poised to grow from $6.4 trillion USD to $14.4 trillion USD by 2030, the genesis of projects in this high growth sector involves land acquisition and commercial development.

What types of drone data do land developers look for?

Drones are being used to capture a wide variety of data for these projects, allowing developers to make more informed decisions and improve project outcomes. From commercial high rises to student housing for education, drones are fast becoming a standard part of the developers equipment portfolio. But what type of data are drones really capable delivery of that delivering that help commercial land developers?

Here I list some of the types of data that drones can capture for commercial land development projects:

Early construction phase for new student housing project

Aerial Imagery

Perhaps the most obvious use of drones in land development is to capture aerial imagery. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture detailed images of the land, including topography, vegetation, and existing infrastructure. Drone service providers use this information to create detailed 3D maps and models that can be used to inform design decisions.

Thermal Imagery

Drones can also be equipped with thermal cameras, which can detect heat signatures. This can be useful for land development projects where heat signatures can indicate potential problems, such as leaking pipes or hotspots in electrical systems. Thermal imagery can also be used to detect changes in temperature that may indicate changes in land use, such as the construction of new buildings or roads.

LiDAR

Drones can be equipped with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors, which use lasers to create high-resolution maps of the land. This technology is particularly useful for land development projects that involve complex terrain or structures, such as bridges or tunnels. LiDAR can also be used to detect changes in elevation, which is important for projects that involve grading or excavation.

Environmental Data

Drones can be used to capture a wide variety of environmental data for land development projects, including air and water quality, noise levels, and wildlife populations. This information can be used to identify potential environmental impacts of the project and develop mitigation strategies.

Construction progress monitoring includes orthomosaic images

Construction Monitoring

Aerial Decisions uses drones to monitor construction progress and detect any potential issues that are time sensitive in nature. By capturing high-resolution images and videos of the construction site, we assist developers in identifying potential problems early on and make any necessary adjustments to the project. Additionally, drones can also be used to inspect properties and land without the need for workers to access potentially hazardous areas. This can help to improve safety on job sites and reduce the risk of accidents. Another useful drone application is in the area of on site supply management. Drones can capture volume data for project stockpiles and immediately transfer that data to supply chain managers, ensuring the timely delivery of fresh supplies to each job site.

In conclusion, I can say definitively that drones have become a valuable tool for commercial land development projects. They are capable of capturing a wide variety of data, including aerial and thermal imagery, LiDAR data, environmental data, and construction monitoring data. By using drones to collect this information, developers can make more informed decisions and improve project outcomes.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 30, 2023
3 Advantages of using Drones for Bridge Inspections

Bridges and overpasses are a critical part of America’s infrastructure. They facilitate the transportation of people and goods across the country and are essential to the nation’s economy. However, many of these structures are aging, and the need for infrastructure repairs is becoming more pressing.

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the average age of the 614,387 bridges in the United States is 44 years. The ASCE also rated the condition of bridges on a scale of 0-100, with 0 indicating failure and 100 indicating excellent condition. The national average score for bridges was 43, which is considered poor.

Many bridges and overpasses are in need of repair, with rust, corrosion, and cracks in their structures posing significant safety risks. In 2021, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association’s (ARTBA) Bridge Report revealed that there are 231,000 bridges in the United States that need repair work.

The need for infrastructure repairs is particularly high in the Northeast and Midwest regions of the country. The ARTBA report found that these regions have the highest percentage of structurally deficient bridges. The state of Iowa has the highest percentage of structurally deficient bridges in the country, with over 4,500 bridges in need of repair. Pennsylvania has the second-highest number of structurally deficient bridges, with over 3,000 in need of repair.

Bridge with hard to reach inspection points

Drones Can Easily Locate Important Repairs

Drones can be a useful tool in inspecting bridges and overpasses. Aerial drone photography can be especially helpful capturing high-resolution images and videos in tight spaces underneath bridges and overpasses. The data drones can capture provide valuable information about the condition of a structure. This information can help engineers identify areas that require repair work and develop maintenance plans.

Drones Increase Workforce Safety

Drones can also improve safety in bridge inspections. Inspectors often need to climb up to great heights to inspect a bridge, which can be dangerous and time-consuming. With drones, inspectors can remain on the ground and operate the drone remotely. This reduces the need for man-power and makes inspections safer.

Rural bridge over flowing river

Drones Reduce Inspection Costs

The use of drones for bridge inspections can help save money in a number of areas. The US government estimates that a typical bridge inspection costs between $4,500 and $10,000 per inspection. Costs include worker compensation (and benefits), equipment (transportation and storage) and traffic management expenses. According to Drone Deploy, drones can reduce those costs as much as 75% and the California Resources Corporation estimates drone inspections results in a 90% reduction in inspection time.

In conclusion, the state of bridges and overpasses in the United States is concerning. With the average age of bridges being 44 years and the national average condition score being 43, the need for infrastructure repairs is pressing.

Fortunately, the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA; P.L. 117-58), enacted on November 15, 2021, established federal programs specifically to fund bridges and significantly increased the total amount of federal funding that can be used for bridge construction and repair.

Ultimately, drones can be an effective tool in inspecting bridges and overpasses, improving safety, saving costs, and increasing efficiency in inspections.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 18, 2023
Why Telecom Managers Use Drones for Cellular Tower Inspections

Cellular technology manager’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and reliability of cell towers. Regular cell tower drone inspections are crucial to identify and address any potential problems before they become major issues that can impact network performance and safety. While traditional tower inspections are still commonly used, the use of drones has become increasingly popular due to their ability to save time, money and improve human safety.

Drone Inspections Save Time

Using drones for cell tower inspections can significantly save time. Drone inspections can be completed much faster than traditional inspections, as they can quickly cover the entire tower without needing to set up complex rigging or scaffoldings. In addition, drones can capture high-quality images and video footage of the tower, allowing for more detailed analysis and faster identification of potential issues. This means that the inspection process can be completed quickly, and any necessary repairs or maintenance can be performed in a timely manner, reducing downtime for the network.

Modern cellular or PCS base station

Drones Improve Cost Savings

Using drones for cell tower inspections can also save money. Traditional inspections can be expensive, requiring specialized equipment and skilled technicians. Drone inspections are more cost-effective as they require fewer personnel and resources to complete the inspection process. Additionally, drone inspections can identify issues early, which can reduce the cost of repairs and maintenance in the long run.

Ensure Worker Safety

Finally, using drones for cell tower inspections can also improve human safety. Typical cellular towers (or PCS Base Stations) range from 50-200 feet. Traditional inspections often require technicians to climb the tower, which can be a hazardous task. Drones can eliminate the need for technicians to climb the tower, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. This is especially important in remote or hard-to-reach locations, where the risk of accidents can be even higher.

In conclusion, cell tower inspections are critical for ensuring the safety and reliability of cellular networks. The use of drones for these inspections offers significant benefits, including time and cost savings, as well as improved human safety. Cellular technology managers are constantly exploring and adopting new technologies like drones to ensure that their networks remain safe, reliable, and cost-effective.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 15, 2023
5 Benefits of Using Drones in Commercial Real Estate

The adoption of aerial drone photography in the commercial real estate industry is on the rise. Like other industries, there are many benefits of using drones for commercial real estate, including improved efficiency, cost savings, and higher quality data. In this blog post, I will discuss the top five benefits of using drones in commercial real estate, along with recent statistics illustrating the uptick of drone adoption in the industry; specifically in the Los Angeles market.

Los Angeles Commercial Retail Center

Here we go:

Faster and More Efficient Surveys

Drones are able to capture high-resolution aerial imagery of properties and land. This means that surveys can be conducted faster and more efficiently, saving time and reducing costs. In fact, a recent survey found that 90% of commercial real estate professionals believe that drones have improved the speed and efficiency of their work.

Improved Marketing

Drones can capture stunning aerial footage of properties that can be used in marketing materials. This can help to attract potential buyers or tenants, as well as showcase a property’s unique features. According to a recent report, using drones in real estate marketing can lead to a 68% increase in listing views.

Commercial Real Estate Rooftop Drone Inspection

Enhanced Property Inspections

Drones can perform inspections of roofs, facades, and other hard-to-reach areas of a commercial real estate property. This can help to identify potential issues before they become major problems, leading to cost savings and improved safety.

More Accurate Property Valuations

Drones can capture high-quality aerial imagery that can be used to create accurate 3D models of commercial properties. This can help to provide a more accurate valuation of a property, leading to better informed decisions and potentially higher profits.

Increased Safety

Drones can be used to inspect properties and land without the need for workers to access potentially hazardous areas. This can help to improve safety on job sites and reduce the risk of accidents.

Now, let’s take a look at some recent statistics on drone adoption in the commercial real estate industry. According to a recent report, the use of drones in commercial real estate has increased by 200% in the last year alone. Additionally, the Los Angeles commercial real estate market has been identified as having significant potential for the use of drones in real estate. With the city’s large and diverse real estate market, drones can be used to capture aerial footage of a wide range of properties, from industrial warehouses to luxury residential homes.

In conclusion, I believe the benefits of using drones in commercial real estate are numerous. From improved efficiency and cost savings to higher quality data and increased safety, drones are helping to revolutionize the way that real estate professionals conduct their work. As adoption rates continue to grow, I fully expect to see even more innovative uses of drones in the commercial real estate industry.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 11, 2023
Why Infrastructure Projects Need to Include Drone Monitoring

As long as I’ve been in the drone tech industry, the most common discussion of where the biggest growth sector in drone applications has been in the construction space. Most consider top of mind commercial, industrial and even residential construction. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll see that an often overlooked sector of the construction industry lies at the heart of the most significant growth area in the near term; construction and infrastructure projects.

Why is that?

The recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law in November 2021, includes $1.2 trillion in funding for critical infrastructure projects over the next decade.

This funding is expected to accelerate the adoption of drone technology in state government infrastructure programs. According to a recent report by Drone Industry Insights, the global infrastructure inspection market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 21.5% from 2020 to 2027. In recent years, drone technology has seen rapid development and widespread adoption in many industries.

State government infrastructure programs are at the top of that list. Drones offer unique capabilities that can help with planning, design, and maintenance of critical infrastructure projects.

In this blog post, I will share 4 key reasons for using drone technology to aid state government infrastructure programs and how the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and federal funding is impacting the progress of critical infrastructure programs.

drone monitoring for road infrastructure projects

Surveying and Mapping

Drones can quickly and accurately survey and map large areas of land, including difficult-to-reach areas such as mountainous terrain, forests, and wetlands. This technology can be used to gather data for various infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and pipelines. According to a recent study by ResearchAndMarkets, the global drone surveying market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 35.2% from 2021 to 2026.

drone monitoring for infrastructure projects

Construction Monitoring

Drones can be used to monitor construction sites, track progress, and detect potential safety hazards. This technology can help improve construction efficiency, reduce costs, and increase safety. According to a recent report by DroneDeploy, drone use in construction increased by 239% in 2020 compared to the previous year.

Bridge infrastructure construction inspections with drones

Inspections

Drones can perform inspections of critical infrastructure, such as bridges, dams, and power lines, without the need for costly and dangerous manual inspections. This technology can help identify potential safety issues before they become critical and prevent downtime due to unexpected failures. According to a recent report by Markets and Markets, the global drone inspection market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 23.6% from 2021 to 2026.

Environmental Monitoring

Drones can be used to monitor environmental conditions, such as water quality and air pollution, in remote areas. This technology can help government agencies identify and mitigate environmental risks, such as oil spills and chemical leaks. According to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets, the global drone environmental monitoring market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.4% from 2021 to 2026.

In conclusion, drone technology has significant potential to aid state government infrastructure programs. From surveying and mapping to construction progress monitoring, drones can help government agencies improve efficiency, reduce costs, increase safety, and mitigate environmental risks. As I mentioned above, the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and federal funding are expected to drive growth in this market sector, which is projected to grow at a significant rate over the next decade.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 4, 2023