Hunting is most often dangerous for the game animal pursued but relatively safe for the hunter. However, accidents do happen. Some may be unavoidable, but others occur because of negligence or hunting/game safety law violations.
If you or a loved one has been seriously hurt in a hunting or firearms accident in or around Syracuse, New York, you may be entitled to file a legal claim for financial compensation, or damages. The Syracuse injury lawyers at Scott C. Gottlieb & Associates, LLP, have represented many New Yorkers injured in hunting accidents, and we understand the laws involved. Call us for a FREE case review toll-free or contact us online.
Causes of New York Hunting and Firearm Accidents
Hunting and firearm accidents happen for a variety of reasons. Other hunters may be mistaken for game, or hunters may fail to follow safety regulations and operate weapons in an unsafe manner. Some of the most common factors involved in a hunting or firearm accident include:
- Running or walking with a loaded firearm
- Placing a loaded firearm in a vehicle or removing it
- Leaving a firearm in an insecure resting place
- Shooting across the roadway
- Shooting near occupied buildings, schools and playgrounds
- Unclear sight of target and beyond
- Failure to engage the firearm’s “safety”
- Crossing fences, climbing trees or any awkward action with a loaded gun.
When an accident happens, police or the Department of Environmental Conservation will typically investigate the accident scene to determine what happened and why. If you have been hurt in such an accident, it’s important to obtain copies of any accident reports filed, because you will need these if you decide to file a lawsuit against the other hunter involved.
Those incurring serious injuries may be eligible for damages, including medical treatment, lost wages, and other financial compensation. Often, victims will file a claim against the homeowner’s insurance policy. Hunters may also carry separate hunting accident insurance that may be obtained through certain hunting clubs and organizations.
However, without proper understanding of the law and your legal options for pursuing a claim, you may not receive the full amount warranted by your injuries – or your claim may be denied completely by the insurance company. You need a law firm familiar with hunting and firearm accidents to argue on your behalf and protect your rights to adequate compensation.
Contact Our New York Accident Attorneys
Scott C. Gottlieb & Associates, LLP, have the resources and experience to handle your hunting or firearm accident. If you have been injured in a hunting/firearm accident and believe someone else is to blame, don’t delay.
Contact our Syracuse, New York, injury lawyers today for a FREE case review by calling toll-free or submit an online request form. All calls and inquiries receive a response within the same day, usually within an hour.