Guns and lawsuits

BBC News story Bill puts sniper case in firing line, apparently there is a bill that prevents gum manufacturers from being sued by people killed by their guns, even if those guns were delivered to stores that don't keep proper records of sales.

An investigation by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) at the time found that the shop could not account for more than 75 other weapons. Previous audits in 1999 and 2000 had found more than 160 guns were unaccounted for.

ATF studies show less than 2% of gun stores sell weapons traced to 57% of gun crimes. Gun-control advocates argue that these few gun dealers have a vastly disproportionate impact on public safety.

Reading the article, a quote from the husband of one of the sniper victims really stood out:

"My wife was the love of my life, she's gone, my children have to suffer without their mother. Now my rights are being taken away. As an American, I have the right to my day in court. I want senators to know that the gun industry must be responsible for what they sell."

(emphasis mine)

I agree with the guy on this one, someone has to take responsibility.  The gun company continued to sell to the gun store despite proof that the store has no records for over 235 sales in the last four years, including the gun the sniper used.  But is the "right" to sue what being an American means?  I thought it was more than that.

What does being an American mean to you?  Answers from non Americans also welcome.  Flames will be deleted.