Vision Loss After a Florida Car Accident
The eye is one of the most vital organs we have as human beings. An injury affecting the eye can have profound and various impacts on a person’s life, ranging from blurred vision to vision loss and substantial mental and emotional consequences. Depending on the nature and severity of the injury, vision loss can range from partial impairment to total blindness. After a car accident, the concern is usually physical injuries, such as broken bones, lacerations, and property damage. However, an often overlooked consequence of car accidents is the potential for vision loss. While it is not common, vision loss can and does happen after a car accident. The sudden impact, debris, abrupt jerking motions, and head traumas have the potential to cause vision loss. In this article, we share some of the ways car accidents can cause vision loss.
How Can a Car Accident Cause Vision Loss?
Vision loss can occur in many different ways during a car accident. The following are some of the ways a car accident can cause vision loss;
Direct Trauma to the Eye
The most obvious way a person can suffer vision loss from a car accident is if they experience direct trauma to the eye. A car accident may result in car windows shattering. If glass gets into the eyes, it can cause severe vision damage. During a car accident, there may also be other debris, such as loose objects and other broken vehicle components, in the air that can directly injure the eye, potentially resulting in partial or complete vision loss.
Facial or Head Trauma
If a person hits the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag, it can result in a traumatic brain injury. A person can also suffer a TBI in a car accident if the brain collides with the interior of the skull due to the acceleration-deceleration movements. One common side effect of traumatic brain injuries is loss of vision. Traumatic brain injuries can cause damage to the visual pathways, optic nerves, or structures within the brain responsible for visual processing.
Penetrating Injury
Sharp debris or objects can enter the eye, causing lacerations and punctures, resulting in immediate vision loss.
Whiplash Injury
Whiplash is an injury most commonly associated with the neck. However, this injury can affect blood flow to the eyes and optic nerves, resulting in temporary or permanent vision loss.
Chemical Exposure
If a car accident involves hazardous substances, exposure to these substances can cause eye injuries, leading to vision loss.
Compensation for Vision Loss
When an auto accident and resulting vision loss were caused by another party’s negligence, the victim may be eligible to recover compensation. After suffering vision loss in a car accident, a person can file a personal injury claim and recover various damages, including the following;
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability and impairment
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Depending on the case’s specifics, a person may even be entitled to recover punitive damages. In Florida, punitive damages are awarded in cases involving intentional misconduct or gross negligence.
Legal Help Is Available
If your loved one suffered vision loss after a car accident caused by another party’s negligence, contact our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for help understanding your legal rights and options.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Ocala, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557
