Auto accidents can cause a wide range of injuries. Most people know that car accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries, whiplash, and fractured bones, but few are aware that a car accident can also lead to vision impairment. Here’s how car accidents cause vision loss:
Retinal Detachment
The retina is a thin tissue that is located at the back of the eye. This tissue converts light into neural signals, which are sent to the brain for visual processing. Hitting your head or face into the dashboard, window, or steering wheel during a car accident could lead to retinal detachment.
If the retina detaches from the rest of the eye, it will no longer receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. If this happens, your vision may start to blur and you may spot little specks floating in front of you.
This vision loss may not be permanent, though. Doctors are often able to surgically reattach the retina to the eye, however, this procedure must be performed as quickly as possible. The longer the retina remains detached, the greater the risk of permanent vision loss.
Vitreous Hemorrhage
About 80% of the eye is made up of vitreous, which is a gel-like substance that helps the eye maintain its round shape. Head and facial injuries sustained in car accidents could cause the blood vessels in the eye to bleed into the vitreous. In minor cases, the bleeding may not have a significant effect on your vision. But in severe cases, the bleeding could lead to a complete loss of vision. Fortunately, this condition is usually treatable, so the vision loss is often temporary.
Optic Nerve Injury
The optic nerve, which is located behind the eye, connects to the brain. This nerve is responsible for sending neural signals from the retina to the brain for visual processing.
Hitting your head or face in a car accident may directly injure the optic nerve. Head and facial trauma can also increase pressure in the eye socket, which can compress the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Surgery can be performed to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore vision. However, this type of vision loss is often permanent in severe cases.
Have you suffered vision loss in a car accident? If so, contact personal injury attorney Martin Gasparian at once. Mr. Gasparian will work tirelessly to hold the negligent driver responsible for your injuries. With his help, you can recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Schedule a free consultation regarding your case by calling 559-203-3333 or submitting your information at MaisonLaw.com.
