Not requred to report? Then where does TX get these stats on accidents? >>

[Stephanie]

So this is a common accident, known as "swinging on game outside a safe zone of fire."

March 14, 2005
Texas Hunting Accidents Drop to Record Low

AUSTIN, Texas – A new report shows Texas hunting accidents in 2004 decreased to the lowest amount since statistical records began in 1966. The number of people injured in hunting accidents in Texas decreased from 44 in 2003 to 29 in 2004, although fatalities increased from two to four during the same period.

More important than the annual dips and peaks, however, is the long-term trend.

“Overall, we’ve cut accident rates by more than half since the 1960s and 70s,” said Steve Hall, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department education branch chief, and author of the latest Texas hunting accident report. Hall attributes part of the steady decrease to mandatory hunter education that began in 1988.

Hall said the significant factors behind most hunting accidents have not changed much in recent years. He believes wearing blaze orange would avoid many accidents. Law violations are common in accident scenarios, including many violations for “failure to take a hunter education course.” (Any hunter born on or after Sept. 2, 1971 must pass the course to legally hunt in Texas.)

The primary reason for Texas hunting accidents remains swinging on game outside a safe zone of fire. This happens when a person points a firearm at another hunter while following a moving target, such as a flying game bird. Hunter education teaches people to set up safe zones of fire where a gun can be safely pointed whether the target is moving or stationary.

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/?req=20050314c