Eye Injuries Leading to Vision Loss After a NJ Car Crash – What to Do Next?

Car accidents can cause a range of injuries, and eye trauma is among the most serious. Whether from broken glass, airbag deployment, or blunt force impact, eye injuries can lead to temporary or permanent vision loss—significantly affecting your daily life, work, and independence.

If you or a loved one has suffered eye injuries in a New Jersey car crash, understanding your legal rights is critical. You may be entitled to compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Below, we discuss common car accident-related eye injuries, the importance of seeking immediate medical attention, treatment options, and how to pursue compensation under New Jersey law.

Types of Eye Injuries That Can Lead to Vision Loss in Car Accidents

Car crashes often involve sudden impact and airborne debris, making the eyes particularly vulnerable. The severity of eye injuries can vary depending on factors such as the speed of the crash, the location of impact, and whether the victim was wearing a seatbelt. Common eye injuries include:

• Corneal Abrasions – Scratches to the surface of the eye caused by flying debris, glass, or chemicals from an airbag. While often minor, untreated corneal abrasions can lead to infections or long-term discomfort.
• Orbital Fractures – The bones surrounding the eye socket can break upon impact with a steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag. These fractures can lead to difficulty moving the eye, pain, swelling, and in severe cases, changes in facial structure.
• Retinal Detachment – A serious condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye, often requiring emergency surgery. If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to permanent blindness in the affected eye.
• Traumatic Iritis – Inflammation of the iris due to blunt force trauma. This condition can cause severe pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision, requiring prompt medical attention.
• Chemical Burns – Airbags contain chemicals that can cause severe irritation or burns to the eyes. Chemical exposure can also happen if hazardous liquids spill inside the vehicle during a crash.
• Optic Nerve Damage – Trauma can put pressure on the optic nerve, leading to partial or total vision loss. This type of injury can be particularly challenging to treat, and in some cases, vision loss may be irreversible.

Warning Signs of Serious Eye Trauma

• Blurred vision or double vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Severe pain or redness
• Visible bleeding in the eye
• A sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light
• Partial or complete loss of vision

Even if symptoms seem mild at first, it’s crucial to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

Seek Immediate Medical Care

If you experience any of the symptoms above following a car accident, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Some eye injuries may not present immediate symptoms but can worsen over time, leading to permanent damage if left untreated.

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if your vision is severely affected.
• If there is foreign debris in your eye, do not rub it—instead, flush with clean water and seek medical care.
• If you experience chemical exposure, rinse your eye with water for at least 15 minutes before seeking treatment.
• Get a detailed medical report—this will be crucial in building a strong legal case for compensation.

Additionally, maintaining all medical records, doctor’s notes, and any prescribed treatments will be essential in proving the severity of your injury in a legal claim.

Treatment Options for Eye Injuries After a Car Crash

Depending on the severity, treatment may involve:

• Prescription eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
• Protective eye patches to promote healing and prevent further injury.
• Laser treatment for retinal tears or detachment.
• Surgical procedures to repair fractures, remove foreign objects, or restore lost vision.
• Vision therapy or rehabilitation if permanent damage has occurred.

In some cases, patients may need multiple surgeries or long-term therapy to regain partial vision or adapt to vision loss. The financial burden of these treatments can be overwhelming, which is why seeking legal assistance is often necessary.

Compensation for Eye Injuries Leading to Vision Loss

If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be eligible for compensation under New Jersey personal injury laws. Depending on your case, damages may include:

Medical Expenses

• Emergency room visits and hospitalization
• Surgeries and specialized treatments
• Prescription medications
• Vision therapy and rehabilitation
• Future medical expenses for ongoing care

Lost Wages & Loss of Earning Capacity

• Compensation for missed workdays due to injury and recovery.
• If vision loss is permanent, damages for reduced earning potential.

Pain and Suffering

• Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.

Disability & Loss of Enjoyment of Life

• If vision impairment affects your ability to perform daily activities, you may be entitled to additional compensation.

New Jersey’s Statute of Limitations

Under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in New Jersey is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file within this period, you may lose your right to compensation.

Consult with Our Experienced Attorneys

At Rosengard Law Group, we understand how devastating vision loss can be. You don’t have to navigate this battle alone. Our experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyers will:

• Evaluate your case for free and explain your legal options. 
• Gather medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions to build a strong claim.
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies to secure the maximum settlement.
• Fight aggressively in court if a fair settlement is not offered.

No Fees Unless We Win!

We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Call (856) 284-6446 today for a FREE consultation or visit Rosengard Law Group to learn more.