Car accidents often result in visible injuries like bruises or broken bones, but many people overlook the possibility of eye-related trauma. The eyes are delicate and can sustain various types of damage during a collision.
Eye injuries not only affect vision but can lead to more serious health issues as well.
Understanding the potential eye problems that can arise after a car accident is essential for seeking timely medical care and ensuring a full recovery.
Blunt Trauma and Contusions
Blunt force trauma is one of the most common causes of eye injuries in car accidents. When the face strikes the dashboard, steering wheel, or airbag, the impact can lead to orbital fractures, bruising, or swelling around the eye. These injuries may cause pain, blurred vision, or difficulty moving the eye.
In severe cases, blunt trauma can result in a ruptured globe, a serious condition requiring immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent vision loss.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is another potential eye issue following a car accident. Sudden, violent impacts can cause the retina to separate from the back of the eye. Symptoms can include seeing flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or a shadow appearing in peripheral vision.
Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, as untreated cases can lead to permanent blindness.
Immediate diagnosis and surgery are crucial to preserve vision.
Corneal Abrasions
Corneal abrasions are when the surface of the eyeball gets scratched or injured by debris like broken glass or other sharp objects during a crash.
While these injuries often heal with proper care, they can cause significant discomfort, redness, and sensitivity to light. Left untreated, corneal abrasions may develop into infections or corneal ulcers, which can threaten long-term eye health.
Chemical Exposure
Airbags, while lifesaving, can also introduce risks. The chemicals used to deploy airbags may irritate or burn the eyes upon contact. Symptoms of chemical exposure include redness, tearing, and a burning sensation.
Flushing out the eyes with clean water following exposure and seeking immediate medical advice can minimize damage from chemicals.
Optic Nerve Damage
The optic nerve is what transmits visual information from the eyeball to the brain. Accident-related injuries like whiplash or a traumatic brain injury can damage this nerve. Optic nerve damage may result in partial or complete vision loss, often without immediate symptoms.
A complete examination by an eye specialist can help identify this condition and explore potential treatments.
Orbital Fractures
The bones surrounding the eye, collectively known as the orbit, can fracture due to the force of a car accident. Orbital fractures may cause pain, double vision, or changes in the eye’s appearance.
Surgery may be necessary to repair these fractures and prevent vision impairment, chronic pain, or other complications.
Seeking medical attention as quickly as possible is critical for anyone who’s experiencing eye problems after a car accident. Even if the symptoms seem minor, an examination by a medical professional may help reveal hidden issues.
Waiting to get treatment can worsen injuries and reduce the chances of a full recovery.
Legal and Financial Considerations
If your eye injury resulted from another driver’s negligence, you may be able to seek financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost or reduced wages, and pain and suffering.
Keeping all documentation of your injuries and consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate your claims process successfully. Eye injuries often require costly treatments, and making sure that you get fair compensation for your damages will be vital in managing these financial burdens.
Eye problems after a car accident can range from minor irritations to severe injuries with lasting consequences. Blunt trauma, retinal detachment, corneal abrasions, and exposure to chemicals are just a few of the potential dangers.
If another driver’s negligence played a role in your accident, pursuing legal action can help secure the resources needed for treatment and rehabilitation. At DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC, we can help.
Protecting your vision is essential, so don’t hesitate to prioritize eye health after a collision.
