Hunting is an enjoyable pastime for many Texans. And though there are always risks where firearms are concerned, hunting accidents in Texas are lower than ever previously recorded.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department began tracking hunting accidents in 1966. From 1966 to 1975, an average of 84 hunting accidents involving firearms were reported each year, including an average of 23 fatalities. In 2011, the department counted 23 hunting-related accidents, including two fatalities.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the worst year was 1968 when there were 105 accidents and 37 fatalities.
From 2002 through 2011, Texas saw an annual average of 30 hunting-related accidents involving firearms or bows – a drop of almost two-thirds from the 1966-75 numbers.
Fatalities averaged slightly more than three (3.4) per calendar year – a more than 85 percent decline from 1966-75.
This past year, both of those numbers fell to their lowest rates since such records were compiled. In 2011, TPWD documented only 23 hunting-related accidents and two fatalities.
The drop isn’t because of fewer hunters. In 1966, Texas sold 644,653 hunting licenses. In 2011, 1.165 million people bought Texas hunting licenses.
So, what changed during that time? In 1988, lawmakers passed mandatory hunter education laws. Now, hunters must take and pass a course on hunter safety. And these courses have increased the general safety and awareness of hunters across the state.
Texas’ “hunter ed” course, taught by almost 3,000 TPWD-certified instructors, most of whom are volunteers, covers a range of topics, including hunting regulations, wildlife conservation, and hunting ethics. But firearms safety and general safe hunting practices are a crucial part of the course.
While hunting accidents have fallen, they still happen. And when they do, the results can be traumatic, painful, and costly.
Houston-Area Personal Injury Attorney
If you are hurt in a hunting accident through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The Law Office of Kevin Krist may be able to help. Kevin Krist is an experienced attorney representing people on a variety of personal injury claims in the Houston area. He knows the laws and understands what you’re up against.
Contact the Law Office of Kevin Krist today to discuss your accident and your legal options. Call 281-677-3967 now.
