The following is a video transcript.
Sometimes bad things happen to good people. Although we do not like to think about any future misfortune we may encounter, it is important that we try to be prepared for anything that may come our way. In this video, let’s discuss what to do if you have the misfortune of losing your firearm or having your firearm stolen.
REPORT IMMEDIATELY
Florida law does not distinguish between a lost or stolen firearm and does not require an individual to report it as lost or stolen. Although there may not be a legal duty to report your firearm lost or stolen, I cannot overemphasize the importance of immediately notifying law enforcement upon realizing your firearm has been lost or stolen. By notifying law enforcement, you will be creating a timeline or paper trail of when you last possessed the firearm. This can provide protection from any future claim of criminal or civil liability that may arise out of you losing or having your firearm stolen.
MAINTAIN ALL DOCUMENTATION
When you report the firearm lost or stolen, you will need to provide law enforcement with certain information, including the make, model, and serial number of the firearm. This is why it is important to maintain all documentation you receive when you purchase a firearm and keep it in a safe location. If you have a picture of the firearm, it would be a good idea to give a copy to law enforcement.
I advise that you take a picture of all your firearms, including a closeup of the serial number on your cell phone. That way, you will always have the information if you need it.
CRIMINAL & CIVIL LIABILITIES
A major concern you may have when realizing your firearm has been lost or stolen is whether you’ll be facing any criminal or civil liability if that firearm is later used to commit a crime or hurt someone. There is no criminal liability if your firearm was stolen and later used in a crime by another person. An individual could possibly face criminal charges for culpable negligence if they lost their firearm by leaving in a place where it is reasonable to believe a minor would find a firearm, such as the bathroom of the mall. Furthermore, an individual could face criminal charges if they lost their firearm in a place where they were prohibited from having a firearm by state or federal law.
Unfortunately, because we live in a very litigious society, it is possible that you could be sued if your gun was lost or stolen and later used to commit a crime, injure somebody, or damage property. Although Florida law provides protection from civil liability under these circumstances, remember that you can be sued for anything by anyone.
If you have any questions regarding what you should do in the event you lose or have your firearm stolen, or any other firearm related questions, give U.S. LawShield a call and asked to speak to your Independent Program Attorney.
ADD GUNOWNER IDENTITY THEFT COVERAGE NOW
A gun is stolen from a responsibly armed American like you every 52 seconds. Stay one step ahead of the legal nightmare you’ll face if someone commits a crime with your stolen firearms. Call or log in to your member portal today to add Gunowner Identity Theft Coverage to your U.S. LawShield membership.
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