Children and Firearms

The prevalence of guns in U.S. households account for some of the most sobering statistics concerning the death and injury of children available.

• Every year, over 500 children are killed by gun accidents
• In 2005, more than 16,000 were injured by a firearm
• Americans own over 200 million firearms, with at least one gun in 35% of households
• 72% of accidental deaths, injuries, and suicides or suicide attempts that affect those between 0 and 19 years of age are inflicted by guns belonging to the family of the victim or a friend

In a culture where guns are so widely available, these numbers are, unfortunately, no great surprise. However, they are not unavoidable. Owning a firearm is a huge responsibility, and one that deserves to be taken seriously.

Too many incidents involving firearms and children have to do with sheer negligence or naivety on the part of the gun owner, with recent tragic cases caused by loaded guns left on car seats or in couch cushions. Parents are often erroneously convinced that their children either do not know where guns in the house are stored, or that they would never come near them. Moreover, children with access to guns are likely to play with firearms in the presence of their friends, greatly increasing the chance of a gun accident even if the victim’s family does not own a firearm.

Contact Us

If you or someone you know has seen a child affected by the negligence of a gun owner, you deserve justice. Contact the Chicago firearm injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. at 312-466-8200 today.