Victims of shootings face physical, emotional, and financial hardships. A lawyer, like a shooting victim lawyer, knows that the impact of gun violence can be devastating, and it is important for victims to be aware of the types of compensation that may be available to help them recover. While each case is unique, there are several potential sources of financial relief for victims who have been injured or affected by a shooting.
Compensation Through Personal Injury Claims
One of the most common ways shooting victims can seek compensation is by filing a personal injury claim. If the shooting occurred due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party, victims may be able to hold them accountable through the civil justice system.
For example, if a shooting occurs at a business or public event where security measures were inadequate, the victim may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Property owners have a responsibility to provide a safe environment, and failure to do so can make them liable for any harm that results. Similarly, if a gun manufacturer or seller is found to have acted recklessly, victims may be able to seek damages through a product liability claim.
Victim Compensation Funds
In addition to filing a lawsuit, victims of violent crimes, including shootings, may be eligible for compensation through state or federal victim compensation programs. These programs are designed to help cover the costs associated with crime, such as medical bills, lost wages, and funeral expenses.
Eligibility requirements for victim compensation funds vary by state, but many states provide financial assistance to victims of violent crimes who meet certain criteria. These funds are typically available to victims who cooperate with law enforcement and do not have a criminal record related to the incident.
Insurance Claims
If the shooting occurs on someone’s property, or if the victim is injured by someone else’s actions, their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might provide coverage. Some insurance policies have provisions for personal injury, which could help cover medical expenses and other damages resulting from the shooting.
In addition, health insurance may cover the medical costs associated with treating injuries sustained in a shooting. However, depending on the severity of the injuries, the costs may exceed the limits of personal insurance policies. In such cases, additional legal action may be necessary to recover compensation.
Workers’ Compensation
If a shooting occurs in the workplace or if a victim is injured while performing job-related duties, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured while on the job.
In the case of a workplace shooting, the victim may be able to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs through workers’ compensation. However, this form of compensation may not fully cover pain and suffering, which may require additional legal action to pursue damages through a personal injury lawsuit.
Find Help You Can Count On
While no amount of compensation can undo the harm caused by a shooting, victims have several legal options for recovering financial damages. Our friends at Deitch + Rogers know that whether through personal injury claims, victim compensation programs, insurance claims, or workers’ compensation, there are paths available to help victims and their families get the financial relief they need. If you or a loved one has been affected by a shooting, it’s important to seek legal guidance to explore the types of compensation that may be available to you.
