Hunting Accidents in South Carolina are rare, but unfortunately, they do happen.
Hunting in South Carolina
The Palmetto State is a hunter’s paradise! South Carolina offers a lot of opportunities to hunters: vast forests, numerous wildlife management areas, and diverse wildlife. From deer and turkey to waterfowl and small game, there’s something for every type of hunter.
But, there’s a serious side to hunting. With so many people participating, accidents can happen. Just like in any other outdoor sport, things can go wrong.
Hunting Accidents in South Carolina
No one likes to think about accidents, but they happen. When we talk about hunting accidents, we’re usually referring to unintentional injuries or, sadly, deaths that occur during hunting. Accidents or deaths can be caused by:
- mistaken identity (like mistaking a person for an animal)
- accidental discharge of firearms
- falls from tree stands
- drowning
Hunting Safety
The good news is that these incidents are relatively rare, thanks to strict safety regulations and hunter education. However, it’s important to always follow safety rules:
- Know the area you’re hunting in.
- Know and obey all wildlife laws.
- Make sure someone knows where you’re going, and when you plan to return.
- Check all of your equipment beforehand and make any repairs that are needed.
- Make yourself (and anyone with you, including your hunting dog) visible to other hunters.
- Practice all gun safety rules.
- Know and practice tree stand safety.
- Stay aware of other hunters – never shoot at sound or movement. Assume it is another hunter unless you can clearly see the animal.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) provides information on firearm safety here.
To hunt in South Carolina, you need a license. If you’re younger, you might need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s also crucial to know the hunting seasons and regulations, which you can find on the SCDNR website here. Remember, these rules are there to keep everyone safe and to protect wildlife populations.
Hunting Accident Deaths
Hunting accident deaths are extremely rare in South Carolina, but it does happen. Per the SC DNR statistics, in 2022, South Carolina had 24 hunting incidents. One of those was fatal. (TheState.com)
So far in 2023, there have been 2 fatal hunting accidents, according to the SC DNR. (PostandCourier.com)
Most recently, on November 24, 2023, 6-year-old Avery Davis was accidentally shot in the head in a hunting accident in Orangeburg, SC. Sadly, he died the next day. (PostandCourier.com)
Avery was in a tree stand “and appears to have been struck by a stray shotgun pellet from a shooter on the ground.” (USAToday.com)
Deer Hunting in South Carolina
Deer hunting is especially popular in South Carolina. It’s exciting and challenging, and it helps manage the deer population, which is important for the environment.
Did you know there’s a new law in SC, involving the deer harvest reporting process?
“Starting at the beginning of July 2024, hunters will have to electronically report deer they’ve killed…This helps the state ensure hunters stay within their legal limits…It’s all about managing the population.” For more information on this new law, read The State newspaper article here.
Deer Hunting Safety
Safety becomes even more important with deer hunting. Why? Because deer hunting often involves firearms or bows, and sometimes hunters are in tree stands, which can be risky if not used correctly.
To stay safe while deer hunting, always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Use a harness when in a tree stand, handle your firearm or bow safely, and always be aware of your surroundings. Plus, wearing the right gear, like blaze orange, helps other hunters see you.
Hunting can be a great adventure. But like any adventure, it’s important to be prepared and knowledgeable. Being a responsible hunter means respecting nature, following the rules, and ensuring everyone’s safety. By understanding the risks and following safety guidelines, you can help prevent accidents and enjoy a safe hunting experience. So, grab your gear, follow the rules, and happy hunting! Remember, safety first makes every hunting trip a better one.
Hunting Accident in South Carolina? The Law Offices of David L. Hood is here to fight for you!
Here at The Law Offices of David L. Hood, we have over 30 years of experience representing injured victims in South Carolina. We offer a free initial consultation so we can listen to your story and provide candid advice about what your legal options are. If you choose to hire us, we also work on a contingent fee basis. This means you don’t pay fees or expenses unless we achieve a settlement or win your case in court.
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a hunting accident, or any other accident that was not their fault, contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood at (843) 491-6025, or fill out our brief online contact form, and we’ll get in touch to schedule your free consultation. We know an accident can turn a person’s life upside-down, but we’re here to support you and guide you at every step in your journey toward justice and healing.
Other online resources used for this article:
https://www.reserveamerica.com/articles/hunting/10-crucial-safety-tips-for-hunting-season
https://www.muhealth.org/our-stories/tips-staying-safe-while-hunting
