Which age group has the highest rate of hunting incidents?

The age group of 10-29 has the highest rate of hunting incidents primarily due to a combination of factors such as experience, risk-taking behavior, and shortcomings in safety training. Younger hunters, particularly those who are new to the sport, may not have developed the skills, knowledge, or judgment needed to handle firearms safely in the woods. This group often includes individuals who are introducing hunting practices without sufficient education regarding safety protocols or the responsibilities of firearm handling.

Additionally, younger hunters might also display a greater likelihood of engaging in more reckless behaviors and taking risks that can lead to accidents. They often lack the maturity and experience that older hunters have likely acquired over the years, which contributes to the higher incident rates. Effective safety education and mentorship programs aim to address these issues by promoting responsible hunting practices and ensuring that younger hunters are better prepared for the potential dangers of the sport.