Why is "right" in quotation marks? Is self-defense not a right?
As noted, the 'right' of self defense is isn't universal across the board and when you can use lethal force varies based on state law. For example, some states like Florida (assuming it hasn't changed) don't allow use of lethal force without retreating, lethal force not being okay so long as you have the ability to retreat and can retreat.
Doug, it is a shame that your CHL class was so lacking in giving you a proper understanding of the law. It is also a shame that you have not taken the time to review your CHL handbook in detail. If your CHL instructor did not cover your liability in a shooting, then your class was lacking and you need to contract DPS in Austin and report the shortcomings of your class and instructor. I respectfully suggest you go back and read 9.05 on page 46 in the CHL Handbook. In case you have lost your handbook or do not have a copy, it is available online at this address...
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/ftp/forms/ls-16.pdf
You are most definitely responsible for every round you fire and just because you hit your intended target does NOT release you from any criminal or civil liability if that round continues beyond your target and hits an unintentional target, such as a person.
You say that making the good guys suffer for an accident serves no purpose. I can assure you that if you accidently shoot me, I will not perceive you as a good guy and I will want you to suffer. You stop being a golden child good guy when you are negligent in your ability to limit your application of lethal force to only the intended target.
And yes, Doug, this most definitely should give you something else to worry about in a critical situation. In fact, this should have been covered in some detail in your CHL class and you should have come to understand this from reading your CHL handbook. Your right to self defense does not absolve you from criminal and civil liability when your actions violate the rights of a 3rd party in some manner. This applies beyond use of guns and has nothing to do with liberal lawyers. For example, say you are in fear for your life and are fleeing in your car from a threat. Granny Perkins is crossing the street when you come around the corner at high speed, runnng the light and run her down and kill her in the crosswalk when she had the light. Sure, you were working on self defense, but you violated Granny Perkins rght to life.