Car accidents can injure people in various ways, including injuries to the eyes. While eye injuries are less common than other traumas, they can still happen during a crash. These injuries may be mild or lead to serious vision problems.
Below are some of the more common eye injuries associated with road traffic collisions.
Eye injuries vary in severity
Eye injuries range from minor irritations to severe and permanent damage. Some common types include:
- Corneal abrasions: Scratches on the eye’s surface, often caused by debris or shattered glass.
- Black eyes: Bruising around the eye from physical trauma, such as hitting your head on the dash, steering wheel or airbag.
- Orbital fractures: Broken bones around the eye socket due to direct impact.
- Retinal detachment: A very serious condition where the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, often caused by a strong blow to the head.
- Hyphema: Bleeding in the front chamber of the eye, which can affect vision and pressure inside the eye.
How these injuries happen
Eye injuries in a crash usually result from direct impact, flying objects or broken glass. Even airbags, while protective, can cause trauma to the eyes when deployed. Seatbelts may help reduce the risk, but the force of a crash can still send objects into the face and eyes.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Minor scratches may heal with eye drops or rest. Bruises and swelling usually improve with time. More serious issues, like retinal detachment or fractures, may require surgery. In all cases, prompt medical attention is important to prevent lasting damage.
Eye injuries after a car accident are often overlooked, but they can have lasting effects. Knowing the risks and recognizing symptoms early can make a big difference in recovery. If you have been injured, seek legal guidance to find out about your compensation options.