New York Blindness Injury Frequently Asked Questions

Blindness is defined is the loss or absence of the ability to perceive visual images. It can be caused by disease, trauma to the eye and reaction to certain medications.

Injuries to the eyes, whether physical or chemical are frequent causes of blindness. A few types include:

• Cornea abrasions and iris injuries: The transparent skin covering the eye can become scratched. Common causes of this can be caused by being scratched by a tree branch for instance.
• The colored area of the eye is known as the iris. An iris injury is often due to being hit in the eye. This muscle controls how much light is let into the eye. A general consequence to trauma in this area of the eye would be inflammation.
• Chemical exposure and burns: These injuries usually occur when a liquid chemical is placed into the eye. While some household products are considered irritants, acids and alkalis are high-risk materials that will cause blindness. This would include things like drain cleaner, ammonia-based products and battery acid.

Lacerations: These occur because of contact with a sharp object.

Ultraviolet keratitis: This is caused by light that burns the cornea. This can occur due to tanning, looking in the sun and arc welding.

Foreign objects: Injury is caused when a small piece of material gets inside the eye.

• Identify any potential hazards that you could encounter. This would include work screens, machine guarding or other safety measures.
• Use proper protection. It is important to note that 90% of all injuries could be prevented with proper protection.

• Goggles;
• Nonprescription and prescription safety glasses;
• Welding helmets;
• Full face respirators; and
• Face shields.

• Blurred vision;
• Double vision;
• Seeing auras;
• Seeing flashing lights;
• Inability to see at a distance or close up; and
• Seeing floaters or streaks.

It will need to be proven that the defendant owed the victim a duty, and the defendant breached this duty by acting recklessly. The victim suffered an injury, and the injury was caused by the defendant’s actions.

Yes. Personal injury cases are very complex, and in order to ensure that your rights are protected and you get the best result, it is important to work with an experienced lawyer. Not only will you stand a better chance of receiving a favorable result, you will save yourself considerable time, stress and money.

If you have been in an accident, your injury could have left you with:

• Permanent scarring;
• Severe headaches;
• Depression;
• Loss of interest in life;
• The need for daily assistance.

We understand that you likely have significant medical bills and are likely unable to work. Depending on your job, you may be unable to work in the future as well. Suffering from a blindness injury can significantly change your life. You may experience problems with family relationships, and no longer want to do things that you once enjoyed.

You are able to collect compensation for your current medical costs, and any expenses that you might incur in the future. You could also be reimbursed for your lost wages, as well as your pain and suffering. Contact our office to learn more. Your first consultation is free of charge.