Why Gunowners Should Purchase Liability Insurance

The 2nd Amendment is interpreted as protecting individual gun ownership in America.  This right comes with many risks and responsibilities.  Take unintentional shootings for an example.  500 people die from unintentional firearm injuries every year.  37% of nonfatal firearm injuries are unintentional as well.  In 2021, there were at least 377 unintentional shootings committed by children, leading to 154 deaths. 

Unintended shootings are preventable.  Consider the case of shootings by children.  Over 4.6 million children live in homes with at least 1 unlocked gun.  31% of accidental firearm deaths could be prevented by child-proof safety locks and loaded chamber indicators.  Gun safes and safety courses also help gun owners be more responsible with their weapons.  Gun insurance encourages safety practices while also protecting gun owners from the costs of an adverse event.  Responsible owners pay lower premiums than the irresponsible ones.

Some home or renters insurance policies also cover firearms.  Typically, these policies protect against loss, theft, and liability in the case of an accident.  Intentional acts (including self-defense) are not likely to be covered.  Furthermore, insurance only protects legal, registered firearms, not illicitly acquired guns.  Insurance policies reward responsible gun ownership while reducing the magnitude of tragic outcomes.