What To Do If You’re In A Car Accident While In Possession Of Your Firearm

Car accidents are an unfortunate risk we take every time you get in your vehicle and drive. While there are ways to avoid them, and simple precautions to consider before hitting the road, it is impossible to account for all risks. What happens when you get in an accident while in possession of your firearm?

This is an incident that not many gun owners consider after they have been involved in a car accident, and it can result in some serious legal trouble if you do not understand the steps to take in the event of this situation. 

So, what should you do if you get in a car accident while carrying your firearm? Take a look.

Swap Insurance and Personal Information

Swapping insurance is likely one of the first things you should do after an accident, while in possession of your firearm or not. This gives your insurance company knowledge of the events that transpired if they need to form a claim, and for the general purpose of having the information of the other driver (name, address). This is just a simple procedure when involved in a car accident, assuming it was not so severe that any occupants require immediate medical assistance.

It is important to do so in the event that the other driver wants to defer any responsibility about their part in the accident, even if they are not the one at fault, they still should provide their insurance and personal information to make the resolving of the accident and any proceeding paperwork processed faster.

Contact Emergency Services/Law Enforcement

To prevent any legal onus falling on you, calling the police or emergency services after an accident is a good start. While the accident itself might not be severe enough to warrant emergency medical services or the fire department, being in possession of your firearm while driving does justify contacting the police immediately.

The reason for this is to show that you understand the significance of your firearm, and having the responsibility to let law enforcement know you are making them aware of the situation. This proves, in the event of legal action, that you were quick to address your position of carrying a gun, and that you sought out the proper assistance in dealing with it fast.

Get Legal Representation

In any case, and especially while in possession of a firearm while driving, you want legal representation quickly. The expert advice here is important to consider after an accident, because a car accident specialist will be able to walk you through the steps you need to take after a collision. Car accident lawyers are specialized in dealing with car accidents, and have years of experience helping clients get out of any legal problems like at-fault accidents, or at the minimum, reducing their fines.

When it comes to being in possession of a firearm while driving and ending up in an accident, car accident lawyers can help you through this interesting situation. This is not an uncommon road incident either, and is far from something that will land you in hot water if you follow their advice and use your best judgement when using the other information available on this list. 

Know Your Firearm Rights

Depending on your area, state, county, etc., there are specific legal requirements you need to meet while you are in possession of a firearm. Some of these pertain to carrying your gun during hunting season, which is one of the most common ways people get involved in a car accident with their firearm in their car/truck. Knowing what limitations you have, such as the state of the gun (locked in a firearm cabinet/safe, unloaded, must be tagged) will help you avoid any legal ramifications.

One thing to remember is that if you are travelling anywhere with your firearm (assuming you are in an area that is not open carry), you should carry your legal documentation to be in possession of that firearm. Carry permit, license, and ownership should all be on hand when you travel with your firearm. Some areas even require checking in with your whereabouts while in possession, so know your legal standing while driving with your firearm.

If you find yourself in the scenario of being in a car accident while in possession of your firearm, there is no need to panic. Follow the important tips provided here and you will not run into any legal trouble. The important rules to know what you need to have on you, and who to contact as soon as possible.