CALL ZINDA LAW GROUP AT (800) 863-5312 ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING LAWYERS
In the proper hands, a gun may be used for hunting or possibly self-defense; however, accidental shootings may occur due to the reckless or negligent actions of another person. An accidental shooting can, unfortunately, leave tragedy and heartache in its wake.
Zinda Law Group gunshot lawyers understand that you may be going through a difficult time. That is why we are here to help you through each step of your potential lawsuit to get you the compensation you deserve for your physical and emotional injuries. We have the knowledge and ability to investigate your accidental shooting case, determine fault, and fight for you in court if a favorable settlement cannot be made.
Contact Zinda Law Group today at (800) 863-5312 to discuss your potential case and to schedule your free consultation. You will not pay us a thing unless we are able to get you compensation in your case.
How To Prevent Accidental Shootings
A study done by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has found that the presence of an unlocked gun in the home increases the risk of both accidental gun injuries as well as intentional shootings. Although you cannot control the actions of others, there are some things you can do to help prevent an accidental shooting, and any resulting tragedy, from occurring. Examples of the precautions provided by the AAP and the National Rifle Association include:
Always Keep the Gun Pointed in a Safe Direction
One of the primary rules of gun safety is to always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. This means keeping the gun pointed down the range, or otherwise away from anything, or anyone, that you do not intend to shoot. You should rely on your common sense to know what direction is the safest, depending on your specific circumstances.
Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot
If you are holding a gun, make sure to rest your finger alongside the frame and outside of the trigger guard. You should never touch the trigger until you are actually ready to fire the gun. Keeping your finger off the trigger is a relatively simple solution to help prevent a horrific tragedy.
Use Firearm Locking Devices
Along with proper storage of the gun, firearm locking devices are designed to keep unauthorized individuals from gaining access to guns, making unintentional deaths and injuries much less likely. There are a wide variety of different kinds of locking devices available, including both internal locks and external trigger locks. Locking the device or the trigger can help prevent other people, including children, from being able to physically shoot the gun and harming themselves, or others.
Keep the Gun Unloaded Until Ready to Use
Another vital rule is to always keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it. An additional aspect of this rule is to treat every gun as if it is loaded, even if it is not. Following both parts is very important and may help keep you from making a deadly mistake.
For example, imagine that you have told your friend that you always keep your gun unloaded; while trying to be funny, your friend then grabs your gun and points it at you, believing that the gun is empty. If you had previously failed to properly check the gun’s chamber, your life may very well be at risk in that moment. If you are unsure how to open the action or to inspect the chamber, put the gun down and leave it alone while you get help from someone who does.
Know How to Use the Gun Safely
Before operating any firearm, you should learn how it operates; this means understanding its basic parts, how to safely open and close the action, and how to remove any ammunition from the gun or magazine. You should also make sure the gun has been regularly maintained to remain safely operatable; this includes the regular cleaning and proper storage of the firearm. Further, if you are considering owning a gun, you might think of taking a firearm safety training course.
Never Use Drugs or Alcohol While Shooting
Alcohol is the most commonly used mind-altering substance in the United States, with millions of adults regularly enjoying alcohol in a responsible manner; however, you should never mix alcohol, or drugs, with guns. Alcohol changes the way you think and feel; it can make it hard for you to think clearly and to make good decisions, for it reduces the functions of the behavioral inhibitory centers in the brain. In other words, it slows down how information is processed in the brain; it is clear, therefore, that any substance which is likely to impair your physical or mental functions should not be mixed with a potentially deadly object, such as a gun.
Following the guidelines listed above may help keep you and others safe from an accidental shooting. If, however, you or a loved one was shot due to the negligence of another person, you may need to contact an accidental shooting lawyer in Colorado as soon as possible after the injury occurs. A Zinda Law Group personal injury attorney may be able to determine the at-fault party and help you gather crucial evidence to strengthen your potential lawsuit; so, contact us today to discuss your unique situation and to schedule your free consultation.
