With hunting season in full swing, the woods in West Virginia are full of anxious hunters waiting for their perfect opportunity.  While this is an exciting time for outdoor enthusiasts, it is imperative that safety be our highest priority.  Similar to other outdoor activities, there is a risk for injury and even death while hunting.  Recent statistics show that roughly 100 people die each year in hunting related accidents nationwide, while the number of reported accidents is much higher. Some of the most common causes of hunting fatalities and injuries are due to accidental gun discharges, inadvertent shootings, and tree stands.

Before venturing out this year try to implement the following…

  • Check the weather – rain/ice/snow can increase the chance of falling or slipping, especially on tree stand ladders
  • Always tell someone where you will be hunting and your expected time for return
  • Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible conditions
  • Wear bright orange. If you are accompanied by a dog, they should also wear orange (e.g. vest, collar, or bandana)
  • Carry a first aide kit
  • Follow gun and tree stand safety tips outlined below

Gun safety tips:

  1. Keep the barrel of your firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times
  2. Firearms should ALWAYS be unloaded when not in use
  3. Don’t rely solely on your gun’s safety – treat all firearms as if they are loaded and ready to fire
  4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it or in the near vicinity
  5. Use proper ammunition
  6. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting
  7. Before cleaning your gun, make sure it is unloaded
  8. Never operate firearms under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  9. Keep your finger away from the trigger until you are ready to shoot
  10. Never cross a fence or climb with a loaded gun
  11. Always unload guns before riding in a vehicle, including ATVs
  12. Clearly identify your target before shooting – be alert when hunting near residential or developed areas
  13. Check hunting equipment often and thoroughly

Safety tips for tree stands:

  1. Be sure to select a tree that is alive and healthy
  2. Practice with your stand at ground level before attempting in the tree
  3. Use the proper and recommended procedures for securing the stand to a tree
  4. Read the warnings and instructions from the stand manufacturer
  5. Use a stand and safety harness that is rated for your weight
  6. Use a haul line to raise or lower your gear, including unloaded firearms and bow
  7. Never climb with anything in your hands
  8. Follow the 3-point rule – always have three points of contact while climbing or descending from your stand

Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.

  • Taylor Downs was easy to talk to (I do not speak the legal language well!) and was very upfront and honest about the entire process of my case. He kept me updated as the case progressed, and answered my relentless questions. The end result was a favorable settlement that I’m not sure could have been any better with anyone else. In short, go see Taylor if you have a case. Don’t be intimidated to go seek his help, he won’t blow your brains out with “legal speak”.

    - PAUL MOUSER

  • Being referred to Taylor was the best thing I could have asked for. Taylor and staff are very easy to talk to. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

    - DAWN FRISENDA

  • If I ever have to go through it again I would definetly call Taylor right away. The group was so helpful through my situation and handled everything that needed to be done. They made a stressful situation a stress free situation. With Taylor you dont have to worry about one thing. Definietly would recomend to anyone.

    - TAYLOR G.

  • Efficient, knowledgeable, and friendly.

    - NOAH SCHUMAKER

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Manchin Injury Law Group, Took care of me when I got into a car accident while I was pregnant. Very scary moment for a first time mom but thankfully Manchin Injury Law Group had my back and treated me great. They made me feel as if I was part of their family. My son is now 7 Months Old and very happy and healthy. I’m very thankful for them for helping me through everything and getting me what we deserved. I 100% would recommend them to anyone. If I ever have an accident again they will be my number 1 phone call!

    - SHAWNNA SHAFFER.

  • The support given helped me to feel like I was included in my personal injury case every step of the way. I was informed about the entire process throughout. It was amazing how quick the turn around time was and I would definitely recommend Attorney Timothy J. Manchin to anyone!

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Taylor and Kelly worked hard on my case so I didn’t have to. Thanks guys!

    - TERRI L. ARMENTROUT

  • Excellent experience dealing with Manchin Injury Law. They were very responsive, professional and easy to talk to. I did my homework before I hired a lawyer after my accident and I am so glad I found Manchin Injury Law Group. If you are injured, give them a call!

    - VILLA COVENANTS

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - CHAD BILOTTA

  • Kelly and Taylor did all the hard work so that I didn’t have to. They both cared about my circumstance and got me a nice settlement. Taylor knows what he is doing and I felt comfortable with my case in his hands.

    - JASON + STACIE MORGAN

  • Great lawyers. They helped me with a West Virginia case.

    - JOSEPH SAUNDERS

  • Such a great experience with Taylor and this firm. Thankful for their diligence and their work on our case. Thank you to all!

    - RENEE FLORENCE WARNER

  • Had a easy and smooth experience with a great attorney so when you go there make sure you ask for Taylor.

    - TIM CROSS

  • My experience at the Manchin Injury Law Group was extremely positive, and I would recommend them to anyone who needs a compassionate and experienced lawyer on their side.

    - TAMMY LACARIA

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