The joyous celebrations of New Year’s Eve can take a dark turn when the celebration includes the dangerous act of celebratory gunfire. Being struck by a stray bullet can be a terrifying and traumatic experience that can result in severe injuries and lasting trauma. Navigating the legal landscape to obtain compensation can be challenging, especially when so many different parties could be liable for your injuries. This is why it’s crucial to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. They understand the law and can ensure you have the best possible chance at recovering full and fair compensation.
Goza & Honnold are here to be your advocates. Our team of experienced attorneys can thoroughly investigate your case, leveraging decades of experience to guide you through the complexities of legal proceedings. We provide support every step of the way, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the confidence to focus on your recovery while we handle your case. We offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss the specifics of your situation and understand the potential legal options available to you. Let Goza & Honnold be your representative in obtaining fair compensation.
Recovering Compensation After Being Struck by Celebratory Gunfire
If you’re hit by celebratory gunfire in Missouri, you have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit against the individual who fired the shot, assuming that person can be identified. To pursue a personal injury lawsuit, it’s necessary to establish negligence or intentional harm on the part of the shooter. Additionally, if the incident occurs in a public place or during a public event, there may be grounds to hold organizers or property owners accountable for the injuries you’ve suffered.
Legislative Developments in Missouri
Missouri has recognized the severity of celebratory gunfire incidents and has sought legislative measures to address the issue directly. The introduction of “Blair’s Law” reflects this effort, aiming to toughen penalties for criminally negligent gunfire within city limits. This proposed law seeks to elevate such violations to state offenses, a shift from being prosecuted under local ordinances.
In the 2024 legislative session in Missouri, Representatives Mark Sharp and Sherri Gallick are reintroducing “Blair’s Law.” This law is named in memory of Blair Shanahan Lane, an 11-year-old who tragically died from celebratory gunfire on the Fourth of July in 2011. The primary goal of Blair’s Law is to implement tougher penalties for illegal firearm discharge within city limits. Previously, Blair’s Law was included in a larger crime bill that Governor Mike Parson vetoed—not because of objections to Blair’s Law itself, but due to other elements in the comprehensive bill. This time around, Representatives Sharp and Gallick are presenting Blair’s Law as a standalone bill, focusing solely on the issue of celebratory gunfire in Missouri and signaling a committed effort to address this concern.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney
Recovering fair compensation after being struck by celebratory gunfire means dealing with the complexities of legal proceedings, including the variations in state and local laws. This is why it’s essential to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as you can. A knowledgeable attorney can provide specific guidance based on the details of your case, helping you navigate the legal system, identify the appropriate parties to hold accountable, and work towards securing compensation for any injuries or damages sustained. With decades of experience, a seasoned personal injury attorney can be your advocate, ensuring your rights are protected and justice is served.
Contact Our Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers Today
Being struck by celebratory gunfire on New Year’s is a traumatic experience that demands a thoughtful and strategic approach to seeking compensation. Understanding the legal landscape is essential, whether through a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible individual or by exploring legislative developments like Blair’s Law. By contacting a personal injury attorney with a deep understanding of Missouri’s laws, you have the best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve.
You don’t need to navigate the legal complexities of recovering compensation after being injured by celebratory gunfire alone. Turn to Goza & Honnold, a legal team with decades of experience in personal injury cases. We understand the intricacies of Missouri’s laws and can thoroughly investigate your case, identifying the appropriate parties to hold accountable. Let Goza & Honnold be your advocates, helping you navigate the legal system so you can focus on recovery. Contact Goza & Honnold today by calling (913) 451-3433 or completing our contact form and schedule a consultation.