Is It Legal to Fire Warning Shots in Texas?
There are many questions new gun owners often have about when they can legally use their firearms. You’ll also hear many myths that could land you in some serious trouble. The best approach to take is the most cautious one, but you may also have valid concerns about your safety at some point that cause you to consider firing your gun. Understanding the legalities of using a gun to fire warning shots helps you stay out of trouble and be a responsible firearm owner.
Understand Why Warnig Shots Are Dangerous
The first thing you need to know is that the state of Texas doesn’t allow firearms to be used just for a warning. A warning shot could hit someone for whom the bullet isn’t intended. Warning shots in a residential neighborhood can go through doors and walls. Your shot could easily harm an innocent bystander. Even if your warning shot hits the person causing the problem, you can still be held responsible for your actions. This is because Texas law only allows you to use deadly force under very specific circumstances.
Always Try to Avoid Using Your Weapon
In your handgun safety course, you’ll learn it’s best to look for every possible option to avoid discharging your weapon. Instead of warning shots, you might be able to scare away trespassers by letting them know you’re aware of their presence. It’s also possible that someone who has inadvertently walked onto your property might leave peacefully once he or she realizes the mistake. In cases when you cannot defuse the situation on your own, your next best choice is to call for help. Asking a police officer to come to the scene makes it possible for you to avoid any legal liability you could face if you fire a warning shot.
Know What Can Happen if You Fire Warning Shots
The judicial system typically views warning shots as careless behavior that could fall under the definition of unlawful use of deadly force. It’s generally understood that handgun owners know shooting a gun in any direction could lead to personal injury, death, or the destruction of someone’s property. Therefore, you should only fire your handgun under controlled circumstances, such as at the shooting range. Or, in extremely rare instances, you may have the right to fire your gun to protect your life.
Learn about Your Rights as a Licensed Firearm Holder
Texas law does allow you to use your handgun when there’s a threat to your life or property. However, harming another person will require you to prove your intention. Typically, the right to use your gun for self-protection applies when you’re facing a burglary of your household, a potential assault, or another life-threatening situation where the other party refuses to back off and help won’t arrive in time. If you’re unsure of your rights as a licensed firearm holder, taking a training course can keep you up to date so you always comply with the law. If you’d like to learn more about the Texas laws governing when and how it’s legal to use firearms, call on experienced professionals for guidance. For information on the lawful discharge of guns, firearms safety, or Austin LTC online training, trust the expertise of the pros from LTC Austin. If you have questions about any aspect of gun ownership in Texas, give us a call today at 512-766-3039.
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