Alabama Law Prohibits Shooting at Flying Drones

Drones are becoming more and more accessible, while also offered at very affordable prices. Some have cameras, others extreme flight capabilities. One thing is for sure; however, in this modern age the newest tech trend to play with is the drone. With the rise of drone use among the general population – of all incomes, mind you – some issues pop up. Not everything is peachy in the world of new technology, especially at a time where the old world is still in the backseat.

Privacy Concerns

For one, privacy concerns from people around the drone may be an issue worth talking about. Privacy is one of the main reasons why drone deliveries for fast food and even online stores have faced backlash. I mean, would you want a drone equipped with a camera snooping around your doorstep because your neighbor ordered something? Breach of privacy and confidentiality often come at a risk when it comes to autonomous flying drones.

 Crashing Concerns

On the opposite end of the spectrum, drone owners have their own fears as well. While in the air, drones are highly mobile – but are also very vulnerable. One good hit can take it down, and one damage in its rotors can send it crashing down to the ground. Being bumped or hit while flying is not the death sentence to the drone. It is the ‘crashing down’ part, which can greatly damage all the parts. One good hit can send a drone crashing. In addition, if the crash caused significant enough damage, you are sure that it is decommissioned for a while – if not permanently.

Crashing also has an effect on the world outside the drone. While yes, the drone breaks, there are times too that a crashed drone has started fires. Not to mention all the broken items it may cause during the fall, a drone crashing down is always bad news.

Gun Shooting at Alabama Drones

For people living in places where gun use from homes may be commonplace, another obstacle shows up. In Springville, Alabama, drone users are fearful of gun owners shooting down their drones. While this is not entirely commonplace, it is quite the possible outcome. People want their privacies; it can be deduced that they would want to do everything in their power to preserve it. And with drones close enough on their property, it can be a coin toss if the homeowner would start firing.

A law may soon alleviate this concern for drone owners in the Alabama area. You may not shoot at drones because they come in the same category as airplanes. It states that it is Federal crime to shoot down, damage, or destroy an aircraft in Alabama.

The Verdict

 A drone crashing down can be quite troublesome for everyone involved. The owner would require repairs and replacements for their drone, as well as pay for any damage their drone created. For the people around them, there have been instances in the past of spinning rotors injuring bystanders. Falling drones can also land on people, injuring them in the process. Another effect of a falling drone (which is a lot more common than you may think) is damage to property. Windows can break, furniture can topple, and fires can start if there is enough fuel to feed the electronic damage.

While fears of people shooting down drones can be alarming, it is also worth noting that you, as the drone owner, must also respect privacy. Flying over rural areas and private residences is against drone regulations, and can get you into hot water. Flying the drone over a crowd is also a hazard, as there are a number of outcomes that can happen. Rowdy crowd members may throw items at your drone, causing it to crash down. The crash, mind you, can also injure even more people below in the process. It just does not work out at all for anyone involved.