See Allstate Test Drones in Texas
September 5, 2016 2:54 PM
With new FAA regulations clearing the way, Allstate tested several drones as part of claims response in South Texas communities affected by a hailstorm. The company tested image quality, damage analysis tools and customer response to the technology at 20 homes.
FAA's Part 107 rules went into effect Monday and cover a wide variety of commercial uses for drones weighing less than 55 pounds. Allstate tested the DJI Inspire, DJI Phantom, and a custom-made drone including some 3D-printed parts, according to a company spokesperson.
Pictured, Mark Woirol of Allstate's drone program (left) stands with Allstate customer Andrew Long (second from left) as Allstate claims adjuster Justin Anderson (second from right) and drone pilot Matthew Johnson (far right) prepare for a drone home inspection.
Our customers have been very receptive and interested in this innovative use of technology and how it will help shape the way we identify damage in the future, Allstate chief claims officer Glenn Shapiro says in a statement. We have been active in the drone space and researching use cases for a while now, but to test drones with our customers who have actual storm damage is a big step forward.
Allstate partnered with EagleView Technology Corporation to analyze the flights and research how the images collected can contribute to an overall aerial image strategy. Allstate also participates in the Property Drone Consortium, a group dedicated to helping further the safe use of commercial drones.
When we think of how to best serve our customers in the future, drones are a critical component, Shapiro adds. This rapidly evolving technology brings a new level of safety and efficiency into the field, so Im encouraged by the new rules and eager to introduce drones in a big way for the benefit of our customers.