Experienced, Hometown Accident Lawyers in Greensburg, PA
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Pennsylvania has more licensed hunters than almost any other state, and hunting accidents happen more often than most people realize. If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, a hunting accident lawyer may be able to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
When a hunting accident is caused by a negligent hunter, defective equipment, or an unsafe property, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. The right hunting accident lawyer can help you understand what your options are and what the process looks like moving forward.
We were born and raised in Westmoreland County and have never left. Our lawyers personally handle every case, attend every hearing, and keep you informed throughout the process. Our clients know us by name, and we get to know them, too.
Pennsylvania hunters face a range of risks in the field. Here are the most common types of accidents that may support a legal claim.
Firearm incidents often occur when a hunter fails to identify a target, misjudges a safe zone of fire, or handles a weapon without reasonable care. When negligence caused the shooting, the injured person may have a valid legal claim.
Falls from tree stands are among the most common causes of serious hunting injuries in Pennsylvania. A defective stand, improper installation, or failure to use a safety harness can all contribute to a fall and may point to liability.
When a tree stand, harness, or firearm fails due to a manufacturing or design defect, the injured hunter may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor.
Unmarked hazards or dangerous conditions on a hunting property may give rise to a claim depending on how the land was accessed and what the landowner knew. Pennsylvania law in this area is specific, and whether a claim exists depends on the facts.
Liability depends on how your accident happened and who had a duty to keep you safe. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility.
The Negligent Hunter
A hunter who mishandled a firearm or acted recklessly in the field may be held financially responsible for the harm they caused.
Equipment Manufacturers
If a product failure contributed to your injuries, you may have a claim against the company that designed or manufactured that equipment.
Hunting Guides and Instructors
Guides and outfitters have a duty to operate safely. When their negligence contributed to an injury, they may be held liable.
Depending on the circumstances, a hunting accident claim may seek recovery for:
Property Owners and Pennsylvania’s RULWA Law
Pennsylvania’s Recreation Use of Land and Water Act (68 P.S. 477) generally limits liability for landowners who open their property to hunters at no charge. Exceptions exist, however, when a landowner willfully fails to warn visitors of a known hazard or when a fee is charged for access. Whether a property owner can be held responsible depends on the specific facts of your case.
Not sure where to start? These are the questions our team hears most often from people who have been injured in a hunting accident in Pennsylvania.
Can I sue someone for a hunting accident in Pennsylvania?
In many cases, yes. If another person’s negligence caused your injury, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Speaking with a hunting accident lawyer is a good first step.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury. Limited exceptions may apply, which is one reason to act early.
What if I was on someone else’s property when I was injured?
It depends. Pennsylvania’s RULWA law limits landowner liability in many situations, but exceptions exist. Whether a property owner can be held responsible depends on the facts of your case.
What if defective equipment caused the accident?
You may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor. Do not discard or alter the equipment, as it may be critical evidence.
What does it cost to hire a hunting accident attorney?
Nothing upfront. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
We serve clients in Greensburg, Latrobe, Ligonier, Mount Pleasant, Irwin, North Huntington, New Stanton, and surrounding communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. The consultation is free and there is no obligation.