Accidental Gun Injuries and Shootings Peak Around the Holidays: How to Keep Your Loved Ones Safe

Guns are popular gifts during hunting season, which just so happens to coincide with the holidays. This year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted more than 185,700 background checks for gun sales on Black Friday, an all-time high since the program was created. It’s no coincidence that the spike in gun sales comes along with a rise in unintentional shootings; a recent analysis revealed surprising numbers about guns around the holidays.

Six short days

From The Associated Press and the USA Today Network, “In all, 32 people were killed nationwide and 59 injured over the past two years from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day, which the analysis identified as the most likely day for accidental shootings each year. The victims were mostly male and young, with a median age of 19. Nearly half the shootings were self-inflicted, and most occurred in their own homes.”

The increase in accidents can be attributed to new ownership and alcohol consumption during the holidays. It takes time to become familiar with individual firearms; receiving one as a gift and showing it off to friends right away is a recipe for disaster. In addition, alcohol and guns don’t mix; judgment and fine motor control are the first things to go when drinking.

Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen. Talking to your children about gun safety and keeping your own guns secure is the first step, but what do you do if one of your loved ones is accidentally injured or killed by a gun at a friend’s house or while out hunting? You may not wish to pursue criminal action against your neighbors or friends, but you can pursue a civil case to help pay for medical treatment or other expenses.

Pursing legal options during the holidays may be the last thing that you want to do, but it can help protect you and your family. Professional legal counsel can help navigate through awkward and uncomfortable conversations and get your family the help they need and deserve. The experienced South Carolina personal injury attorneys at McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC can evaluate your case today; call 803-327-7800 or contact us today for a free consultation.