Coping with Vision Loss Due to Injuries: Understanding Causes and Legal Recourse

Losing one’s sight is a life-altering experience that can be incredibly traumatic. Vision plays an integral role in our daily lives, and sudden vision loss can be emotionally, psychologically, and physically challenging. When these injuries are caused by another party’s negligence, the situation becomes even more complex. In this listicle, we’ll explore different ways the eye can get injured, we’ll also discuss what to do when these injuries are caused by someone else, and when to call a professional attorney at Evergreen Personal Injury Counsel. 

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs):

Traumatic Brain Injuries can result from accidents such as car crashes, falls, or sports-related incidents. When the head sustains a severe impact, the optic nerve can be damaged, leading to partial or complete loss of vision. TBIs can also cause long-term vision problems, including blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty focusing.

2. Chemical Exposure:

Chemical exposure to the eyes can lead to severe injuries and vision loss. This can occur in industrial settings, laboratories, or even at home. Corrosive chemicals, like acids or alkalis, can cause immediate damage to the cornea, resulting in permanent blindness if not treated promptly.

3. Eye Injuries in the Workplace:

Work-related eye injuries are unfortunately common. People in various professions, such as construction workers, welders, and healthcare professionals, are at risk of sustaining eye injuries. Foreign objects, debris, or even workplace accidents can cause injuries that result in vision loss. Employers must prioritize safety measures and provide appropriate eye protection to prevent these accidents.

4. Sports-Related Vision Loss and Eye Injuries:

Sports can be an exhilarating pastime, but they also come with the risk of eye injuries. High-speed sports like hockey, basketball, or baseball can lead to eye trauma from impacts with balls, sticks, or other players. The use of protective gear, such as helmets with face shields, is crucial in preventing eye injuries in sports.

5. Explosions and Blasts:

Military personnel and individuals working in explosive or volatile environments face a heightened risk of eye injuries from blasts and explosions. The shockwave generated by these events can damage the eyes, leading to vision impairment or blindness. Protective eyewear and appropriate safety measures are essential in these situations.

6. Penetrating Eye Injuries:

Penetrating eye injuries occur when sharp objects, like shards of glass, knives, or projectiles, puncture the eye. These injuries can cause significant damage to the eye’s structure and often result in permanent vision loss. Immediate medical attention is critical to prevent further complications.

7. Assault and Physical Altercations:

Violent altercations or assaults can also lead to severe eye injuries. Punches, kicks, or the use of objects as weapons can result in trauma to the eye. In some cases, the damage can be irreversible, affecting the victim’s quality of life significantly.

8. Medical Malpractice:

Eye surgeries and medical procedures involving the eyes carry inherent risks. In some unfortunate cases, medical malpractice can result in vision loss. Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or improper post-operative care can lead to severe complications. Victims of medical malpractice may have legal recourse to seek compensation for their injuries.

9. Car Accidents:

Car accidents are a leading cause of eye injuries. Impact with the vehicle’s windshield, airbags, or debris can cause traumatic eye injuries. These injuries may result in vision impairment, affecting a person’s ability to drive or perform daily activities independently.

10. Slip and Fall Accidents:

Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including eye injuries. A fall can lead to facial trauma, which may result in damage to the eyes or surrounding structures. Property owners and managers must maintain safe premises to prevent such accidents.

What to Do When Vison Loss or Injuries are Caused by Another Party:

When someone else’s negligence or intentional actions lead to your eye injury and vision loss, it’s essential to know your legal rights and options for seeking compensation:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

Your health should always be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention to assess the extent of your eye injury and begin necessary treatment. Medical documentation will be crucial for any legal claims in the future.

2. Document the Scene:

If possible, document the scene where the injury occurred. Take photographs, gather witness statements, and collect any available evidence. This documentation can be valuable in proving liability.

3. Consult an Attorney:

Contact a personal injury attorney with experience in handling cases involving vision loss due to another party’s negligence. They can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of pursuing compensation.

4. Preserve Evidence:

Preserve any evidence related to your case, such as medical records, bills, and correspondence with insurance companies. These documents will be essential when building your case.

5. Determine Liability:

Your attorney will investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury to determine liability. They will identify the responsible party or parties and assess their negligence.

6. File a Personal Injury Claim:

EPIC will help you file a personal injury claim against the responsible party’s insurance company or pursue a lawsuit if necessary. This claim seeks compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

7. Negotiate or Litigate:

Depending on the circumstances and the willingness of the responsible party to cooperate, your attorney will negotiate a fair settlement or proceed with litigation in court. Your attorney will advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process.

8. Explore Rehabilitation and Support:

Vision loss can be emotionally and physically challenging. Work with medical professionals and support groups to explore rehabilitation options and cope with the emotional impact of your injury.

The loss of sight or vision due to an injury can be one of the most challenging experiences a person can endure. Whether caused by a car accident, workplace incident, or other circumstances, understanding the causes and seeking legal recourse when another party is at fault is crucial. By taking the appropriate steps, you can protect your rights, access necessary medical care, and work toward rebuilding your life after a vision-altering injury. Give the professional attorneys at Evergreen Personal Injury Counsel a call today.