Some eye injuries can cause permanent vision loss or vision impairment.
There are many ways to get hurt in a car accident, but eye injuries are some of the most painful and debilitating. From blunt force trauma to debris and shards of glass flying through the air, there are numerous ways that our eyes can be damaged during a crash.
It's important to understand the various types of eye injuries that can occur in car accidents and what legal options crash victims may have to recover compensation for their losses. However, the process of seeking compensation for an eye injury can be lengthy and complicated, which is why it's in your interest to consult a lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
If you or a loved one sustained an eye injury in a car accident anywhere in the GTA, contact us today to see how an experienced Toronto car accident lawyer can help you.
Types of eye injuries suffered in crashes.
Eye injuries sustained in car accidents can range from minor to severe, with each type requiring different levels of medical attention and recovery time. The following is an overview of some of the most common types of eye injuries that can occur in car accidents:
- Corneal Abrasions: A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of the eye, which can be caused by debris flying through the air or by blunt force trauma. Symptoms of a corneal abrasion include pain, tearing, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Corneal abrasions can be treated with antibiotic ointments and protective eye patches, although severe cases may require surgery.
- Black Eye (Orbital Contusion): A black eye, or orbital contusion, is a bruise that occurs around the eye caused by blunt force trauma to the face. This type of injury can result in swelling, pain, and changes in vision. A black eye is typically a minor injury that will heal on its own within a few days to a week, but it can also be a sign of a more severe underlying injury.
- Orbital Fracture: An orbital fracture is a break in one of the bones surrounding the eye, which can result from blunt force trauma in a car accident. This type of injury can cause changes in vision, double vision, or a sunken appearance to the affected eye. Orbital fractures often require surgery to repair, and the recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the injury.
- Globe Rupture: A globe rupture is a severe eye injury that occurs when the eye is punctured or torn, often by sharp objects such as debris or broken glass. This type of injury can cause permanent vision loss and requires immediate medical attention and surgery to repair.
- Retinal Detachment: A retinal detachment is a medical emergency that occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, becomes separated from the rest of the eye. This type of injury can result from blunt force trauma to the head in a car accident and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Traumatic Cataracts: A traumatic cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens that can result from blunt force trauma in a car accident. This type of injury can cause vision problems and, in severe cases, require surgical removal of the damaged lens.
- TBI-Related Injuries: A concussion or another type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) can impact not just the brain but also the eyes, causing visual impairments such as blurred vision, double vision, and difficulties with focusing or tracking objects. These symptoms put an added strain on the brain as it tries to comprehend what it is seeing.
Keep in mind that eye injuries can be debilitating and cause lasting damage if not treated promptly and appropriately. The best way to protect your vision and ensure the best outcome is to seek medical attention immediately after a crash. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the eye and restore vision. This may include procedures such as a corneal transplant or suturing a lacerated eyelid. It's important to have a thorough evaluation by a doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your particular eye injury.
Common causes of eye injuries in car accidents
In a crash, eye injuries can occur as a result of:
- Blunt Trauma: Blunt trauma is the most common cause of eye injuries in car accidents. It occurs when the eye is struck by a blunt object, such as a steering wheel, dashboard, or car door. This type of injury can result in bruising, swelling, and changes in vision and can range from minor to severe, depending on the extent of the impact.
- Penetrating Trauma: Penetrating trauma occurs when a foreign object, such as debris or broken glass, penetrates the eye. This type of injury can cause severe damage to the eye, including puncture wounds, lacerations, and globe ruptures, and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Debris: Debris flying through the air during a car accident can cause a variety of eye injuries, including corneal abrasions, lacerations, and globe ruptures.
- Airbags: While airbags are designed to protect drivers and passengers in the event of a car accident, they can also cause eye injuries. This is especially true in the case of improper deployment, which can result in blunt-force trauma to the eye or other parts of the face. To reduce the risk of airbag-related eye injuries, it is important to ensure that airbags are properly installed and maintained and to wear seat belts at all times while in the car.
Remember, the treatment of eye injuries requires prompt action and careful management to ensure the best possible outcome. Whether it's pain management, surgery, or follow-up appointments, seeking medical attention is the best way to protect your vision and maintain healthy eyes.
Smitiuch Injury Law is here to help.
If you were involved in a crash and suffered an eye injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. A car accident lawyer can help gather evidence, build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit on your behalf to recover damages.
At Smitiuch Injury Law, our Toronto car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process and handle all the details for you so that you can focus on your recovery. To learn more, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
