Eye injuries are a common consequence of car accidents, often resulting from the collision’s impact or debris flying inside the vehicle. These injuries vary in severity, ranging from minor irritation to permanent vision loss. Understanding the types of eye injuries that can occur after a car accident is vital for seeking proper medical attention and legal recourse.
- Corneal Abrasions and Foreign Bodies
One of the most frequent eye injuries sustained in car accidents is corneal abrasions. It occurs when the cornea, the clear layer covering the front of the eye, is scratched or scraped. This can happen when debris is propelled into the eye upon impact or from the force of an airbag deployment.
Foreign bodies, like glass fragments or metal shavings, may become lodged in the eye during a collision. If not removed promptly and carefully, this can cause further damage and infection.
- Traumatic Iritis
Another type of eye injury commonly seen in car accidents is traumatic iritis, which involves inflammation of the iris—the colored part of the eye. The force of impact can cause the iris to become bruised or inflamed. In severe cases, traumatic iritis can result in permanent vision impairment if left untreated.
- Hyphema
This condition is characterized by bleeding between the cornea and iris in the anterior eye chamber. Hyphema can lead to reduced vision and increased intraocular pressure, potentially causing long-term damage to the eye if not managed promptly by a medical professional.
- Orbital Fractures
Orbital fractures, or eye socket fractures, often result from direct impact to the face or head. These fractures can cause double vision, eye protrusion, and difficulty moving the eyes. Surgical intervention may be needed in severe cases to repair the damage and prevent long-term complications.
- Globe Ruptures
Car accidents can result in globe rupture, a catastrophic injury where the outer membrane of the eyeball tears, leading to leakage of intraocular fluid and potential loss of vision. Globe rupture requires immediate medical attention to preserve vision and prevent further damage to the eye.
How Are Eye Injuries Diagnosed and Treated After a Car Accident?
An ophthalmologist can conduct a comprehensive examination to assess the extent of damage and determine the appropriate course of treatment for your eye injury. Visual acuity tests, slit-lamp examinations, and imaging studies may be performed to evaluate the condition of the eye and surrounding structures.
Minor eye injuries may heal on their own with the use of eye drops and protective eyewear. Severe ones may require prescription medications, eye patches, or surgical intervention to repair damaged tissue and restore vision. You should always follow the doctor’s treatment plan to optimize healing and minimize the risk of long-term complications.
Can I Seek Compensation for Eye Injuries Sustained in a Car Accident?
Eye injuries can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting your ability to work, drive, and perform daily activities. If you have suffered eye injuries in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Our Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Represent Clients With Eye Injuries
If you or a loved one has suffered eye injuries in a car accident, our Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King are here to help. Contact us online or call 202-331-1963 for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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