Negligent hunting accidents can cause serious and sometimes life threatening damage. For most of us in the South, hunting is a sport; a favorite past time. But, quite obviously, hunting is a bit more dangerous than most other sports. Unlike baseball or basketball, hunting involves a deadly weapon.
Throughout the hunting seasons, it is not uncommon for any number of people to suffer serious injury. They can occur for any number of reasons. But, at the root of it all is that of negligence and careless action. Quite obviously, your friend did not mean to shoot you instead of the deer. But, no matter the motive, you are left to deal with the consequences. So, let’s take some time and figure out the most common reasons for a hunting accident. That way, we can begin to combat them.
Negligent Hunting Accidents: The Most Common Reasons Behind An Accident
Accidentally Shooting a Weapon
By far one of the most dangerous and careless hunting accidents can come from accidentally firing a weapon. While most hunters know their guns really well, it can be easy to get slack with gun safety. As you are climbing up a deer stand or handling your gun in that stand, you may not focus on proper gun safety.
Mistaking a Person for an Animal
Believe it or not, many hunting accidents take place when someone mistakes a person for an animal. At times, the woods and weather may make it difficult to distinguish objects. And it is possible for someone to fire, believing they are shooting at an animal. In order to help prevent this, always wear a bright orange or neon when hunting.
Experiencing a Ricochet
While this seems unlikely, some accidents do occur due to ricochet. In this case, someone shoots at a target. But the object that bullets hits, pops the bullets back off of itself, leaving it to hit someone in the area. This can most often occur when you are practice shooting or aiming at metal targets. Even when target practicing, you must maintain gun safety. Be aware of your target and your surroundings before picking up the gun or weapon.
So while you’re out hunting, make sure you follow good safety measures. You do not want your negligent actions to risk the safety of a fellow huntsman.