You wouldn’t dream of driving your car without insurance, right? Then why would you carry a firearm without it?
A few years ago, while attending Bike Week in Ocean City, Maryland, with my security team from Freedom Biker Church York, PA, I was introduced to the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). They provide self-defense insurance, something too many gun owners overlook.
A common fantasy is that if you ever have to shoot someone in self-defense, everything will just “work out.” That is absolutely not the case. When a police officer uses deadly force, they face three areas of liability:
- Departmental (internal investigation)
- Criminal (potential prosecution)
- Civil (lawsuits from the suspect or their family)
As an armed citizen, you don’t have departmental oversight, but you still face criminal and civil liability.
The Reality of a Use-of-Force Situation
Many people say, “I won’t say anything to the police.” That’s laughable.
Think about the last time you were in a minor car accident. When the police arrived, both you and the other driver couldn’t wait to explain your side of the story. Now imagine that same reaction—but after using deadly force. You’ll be in shock, physically sick, shaking, and struggling to process what just happened.
It’s human nature. From childhood, when something goes wrong, we instinctively start talking to avoid getting in trouble. But after a self-defense incident, saying the wrong thing—even an innocent statement—can land you in prison.
As a retired police officer who has used deadly force and investigated countless use-of-force incidents, I can tell you: you will not be thinking clearly. That’s why I tell all my clients to request an ambulance for themselves when calling 911. After a high-stress event, symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain are common. By getting medical attention, you also physically remove yourself from the scene, limiting immediate questioning.
Who Can You Call?
There are only three people you can legally call who cannot be compelled to testify against you in court:
- Your spouse (not a girlfriend/boyfriend)
- Clergy
- Your attorney (this should be your first call!)
Most personal attorneys do not specialize in self-defense law. You wouldn’t hire a divorce lawyer for a real estate issue, so why trust one with your freedom?
And remember: law enforcement can and will seize your phone or access your call records.
Why I Chose USCCA
My son Frank, 25, carries a gun. One day, I asked him, “Who would you call if you had to use your firearm in self-defense?” His response? “Mom, because you never answer your phone.”
That told me he needed education. Now, like his mother and me, he’s a USCCA Platinum Member and carries the membership card in his wallet.
With USCCA, you have a plan of action before you ever need it. Their 24/7 hotline immediately connects you to an attorney who specializes in self-defense, wherever you are—whether at the hospital or a police station.
I would never carry a firearm—or let a loved one carry—without USCCA coverage.
Why I Prefer USCCA Over Other Options
- Covers All Use-of-Force Incidents – You’re far more likely to need to defend yourself empty-handed than with a firearm.
- Covers Your Spouse at Home – If your spouse uses force to defend themselves on your property, they’re covered.
- Covers Legal Possession Cases – Even if you have a past felony, as long as you were legally allowed to carry the weapon used, you’re covered.
- Covers Dog Bites– if you dog bites someone in defense of you or you family they will cover you. This is huge for me because I have a service dog.
At Freedom Biker Church York, some of my security team were convicted felons who had turned their lives around but couldn’t legally own firearms. Many opted to carry Byrna pistols, which, while not a substitute for a firearm, are the next best thing.
How to Join
Click here to join USCCA. Full transparency: if you use my link, I receive a $200 credit for the USCCA store. But guess what? As soon as you join, you get your own link to share with friends and family, earning credits as well.
Beyond the insurance, USCCA offers phenomenal training resources, both online and in-person. As a professional trainer for over 25 years, I’m impressed by their content. It’s an incredible resource for those who:
✔ Can’t afford additional training
✔ Live in remote areas
✔ Feel self-conscious about attending in-person training
Plus, new members receive quality gear, not cheap giveaways.
I encourage you to compare USCCA with other providers. I did. And for all the reasons I’ve outlined here, I’m confident you’ll make the same choice.
For the sake of your family and your freedom, get coverage. Just pray you never need to use it.
