Clearwater, FL — SIG Sauer P320 Safety Concerns: Reports of Accidental Discharges Raise Questions in Florida

Clearwater, FL (July 28th, 2025) – State Representative Danny Alvarez recently urged Florida law enforcement agencies to suspend the use of the SIG Sauer P320 handgun. His urging came after reports linked the weapon to accidental discharges while holstered—discharges that allegedly occurred without a trigger pull. According to investigations by The Washington Post and The Trace, the P320 has been associated with more than 100 unintentional firing incidents nationwide, resulting in numerous injuries.

For agencies and officers in Florida, this raises questions not just about safety, but also about potential legal liability if the weapon causes harm. If you suffered injuries or your loved one died due to injuries inflicted by a handgun malfunction, or another defective product, contact our product liability lawyers at Light & Wyatt Law Group right away. We can help you pursue compensation for damages, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

Alleged SIG Sauer P320 Defects and Safety Issues

The SIG Sauer P320 entered the market in 2014 and was quickly adopted by both civilian users and government agencies. In 2017, the U.S. military selected a modified version, the M18, as its standard service pistol. Despite that endorsement, multiple reports suggest the gun may fire unintentionally. Representative Alvarez highlighted the risk to both officers and bystanders caused by issues with the firearms.

Drop-Fire Risks Identified in Testing

Military testing revealed that certain drop angles could cause the pistol to discharge. Although SIG Sauer offered a voluntary upgrade to modify the trigger and striker assembly, not all weapons in circulation received the upgrade.

Reports of Unintentional Firing in Holsters

Subsequent incidents involved guns firing while holstered, during routine handling, or while officers adjusted their clothing—without a trigger pull. In Florida, a retired Tampa police officer suffered a severe ankle injury in 2020 when his holstered P320 discharged as he moved his jacket.

These cases have led some federal agencies and local departments in other states to replace the weapon, pause its use, or conduct internal testing.

Manufacturer’s Response to SIG Sauer P320 Injury Allegations

For it’s part, SIG Sauer disputes the allegations that the firearm is a defective product. In an official statement, the company asserted that the P320 “meets and exceeds all industry safety standards” and cannot fire without a trigger pull. 

National Actions Could Influence Florida Agencies

Other jurisdictions have already taken action, which could shape expectations for Florida.

Federal Agencies Pausing SIG Sauer P320 Use

Units of the U.S. Air Force, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and other federal agencies have either suspended or removed the P320 from service. Some agencies documented internal test failures where holstered pistols fired unexpectedly.

Local Enforcement Departments in Other States Changing Policies

Police departments in multiple states, including Milwaukee and some in Virginia, have transitioned away from the P320. In several cases, departments cited officer injuries and safety testing as justification.

Public Concerns About Reselling Withdrawn Pistols

A separate controversy has emerged over departments that removed the P320 from service but later sold it to the public. Critics argue this practice places civilians at risk and could create liability if a resold gun causes personal injury.

Florida Product Liability Law for Victims of SIG Sauer P320 Injuries

If you or someone in your family has been hurt by a firearm that discharged unexpectedly, Florida law provides specific ways to hold manufacturers accountable. These cases often involve serious injuries that create medical bills, lost income, and lasting physical effects. Understanding how defective product claims work in Florida can help you determine whether you have grounds to seek compensation for those losses.

Strict Liability in Florida Firearm Defect Cases

Manufacturers, distributors, and sellers can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by a product that is defective in design, manufacture, or warnings. To bring a personal injury claim, the victim generally must show:

• The firearm was defective and unreasonably dangerous when used as intended
• The defect existed when it left the manufacturer’s control
• That defect directly caused the injury

For cases involving the P320, a victim could argue that its lack of an external manual safety or certain internal design elements made it more dangerous than an average consumer would expect.

Failure to Warn and Duty to Inform in Florida

Manufacturers also have a duty to warn about risks that may not be obvious to users. If SIG Sauer knew or should have known that the P320 could fire without a trigger pull, a failure to include strong warnings or instructions could be a basis for legal action.

Other Potential Liable Parties

While the primary target of a product liability claim is usually the manufacturer, other parties, such as distributors, retailers, or even agencies that knowingly continued using or issuing the weapon, may face legal exposure depending on the facts.

What Florida Victims Should Know After a SIG Sauer P320 Accident

Florida law enforcement agencies are facing increasing pressure to reevaluate the use of the SIG Sauer P320 amid reports of unintentional discharges and serious injuries. While the manufacturer denies a defect, the growing number of incidents has already prompted some federal agencies and local departments in other states to remove the pistol from service.

For individuals and families harmed by a firearm that may have malfunctioned, Florida’s product liability laws may allow for financial recovery to help cover medical costs, lost wages, and long-term care needs. Speaking with a Clearwater attorney experienced in defective product claims can help you understand your legal options and the next steps. To discuss your options, contact our product liability lawyers at Light & Wyatt Law Group today. Call 727-499-9900 to schedule a free consultation.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association