In recent years, gun violence and firearm-related deaths have increased throughout Georgia. Gwinnett lawmakers and law enforcement have taken action to protect the county and demand more safety throughout the state in response to the sobering statistics. Despite these ongoing efforts, gun-related injuries and death continue to affect Georgia’s citizens, cutting lives short and devastating families.
When perpetrators of this violence are found, they face punishment in the criminal courts. For victims or families of those left behind, that criminal penalty brings one form of justice. One of our skilled personal injury lawyers in Gwinnett County can help victims of gun violence seek justice in civil court as well, by pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
Sobering gun violence statistics
For 2019, GunPolicy.org reported 39,682 gun deaths in the United States, 1695 of which occurred in Georgia. The gun death rate per 100,000 people in the United States was 12.09 compared to 15.96 in Georgia.
Of the 1695 gun deaths in Georgia for that year:
- 22 were unintentional
- 27 were of an undetermined cause
- 691 were homicides
- 955 were suicides
From data collected over a ten-year period and through 2019, Everystat.org determined that for an average year, 1,603 people die and 4,492 are injured by guns in Georgia. The state ranked 9th in the country for high rates of gun violence and, over that 10-year period, showed a 25% increase in gun violence compared to a 17% national increase.
Fast forward two years to 2021, and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows an increase in the gun-related death rate in Georgia to 20.3 per 100,000 people.
Responses to gun violence in Gwinnett County
Gwinnett County law enforcement is taking action to combat gun violence in the county. Though the Gwinnett County Police Department reported a decrease in violent crime in the area last year, “several tragic incidents involving young people killed because of gun violence” motivated the department to develop a Gun Crimes Unit.
The Unit uses data, intelligence, and technology to find the perpetrators of gun crimes. Of the gun incidents reported to the unit, analysis shows 83% did not involve deaths or injuries. Even so, victims of the 17% that did involve injury or death deserve justice and can call upon the team of personal injury lawyers with Rafi Law Firm to get it.
Four Gwinnett County lawmakers have also joined the fight against gun violence, asking the governor to call a special session of the Georgia Assembly to address gun violence shortly after two public shooting events, saying, “We owe it to hard-working Georgia families who deserve to go to work or go to school without fear that they or one of their loved ones will not come home.”
Holding negligent parties responsible for Gwinnett County gun violence
If you have been injured or have lost a loved one to gun violence in Gwinnett County or the surrounding areas, you have the right to seek justice beyond what the criminal court can enforce. Even if no criminal charges are filed due to the circumstances of the incident, you may still have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim.
Gunshot injuries are emotionally traumatic, cause physical pain, and may bring lifelong disabilities. Medical bills and lost income deplete your finances, and if you cannot return to work and need continued care, it is impossible to achieve any sort of financial stability.
A personal injury settlement can restore those losses by covering your medical bills and care and recouping your lost income. You can also see compensation for your emotional suffering and losses to your enjoyment and quality of life.
Wrongful death suits
If your loved one is killed by gun violence, a personal injury lawyer from Rafi Law Firm can file a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death settlement covers accident-related medical costs, death expenses, your loved one’s income and financial contributions to the household, and acknowledges your loss of relationship and affection.
We fight for victims of gun violence in Gwinnett County
Gun violence is pervasive in our state and affects the residents of Gwinnett County. Rafi Law Firm supports the effort to end gun violence by providing justice to those hurt or who experience the untimely death of a loved one from gun violence.
Our attorneys investigate your case to determine who is liable. While the perpetrator likely holds fault, others may be negligent as well, such as the actual gun owner or the owner of the business who sold the perpetrator the gun. No matter the situation, we will work fiercely and compassionately on your behalf. Call (404) 800-9933 or visit our contact page to arrange a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.