Eyesight loss can be either partial or total and temporary or permanent.

An eye injury whether temporary or permanent can occur through many different ways.  The more usual eyesight loss claims we have seen over the years have included the following:

• An assault – a blow to the head such as a punch or being struck by an object can lead to eyesight loss. A case we revolved recently concerned a victim having a smashed glass bottle struck into their face causing significant visual impairment to the eye
• Intense light – people in certain jobs such as welder can be exposed to intense light which can result in temporary or permanent vision problems. There are duties on an employer to ensure that the employees are provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and a failure on the part of the employer would normally give rise to a successful claim for compensation
• Chemical exposure – if there is a backsplash or a spillage for example which enters the eye it can cause severe burn type injuries and loss of sight. These injuries can arise in the workplace and similar to intense light the employer has obligations to ensure that employees are properly trained and provided with suitable personal protective equipment to shield and protect against such injuries
• Electrical shock – depending on the location and severity can cause eye injury
• Grit and particles – this can arise depending on the nature of the work being carried out usually involving the use of machinery and the appropriate safeguards must be put in place to prevent injury to the eye
• Sharp objects such as saw blades can snap causing serious injury if contact is made with the eye.  These injuries can often arise in the workplace if there is failing on safeguards put in place to prevent them

Eyesight injury in the workplace

There are certain health and safety obligations set down in law on the employer to carry out appropriate risk assessments in the workplace to identify particular risks and to put in place appropriate measures to minimise the risk of injury. In particular the employer must provide training, appropriate personal protective equipment, safe machinery and equipment and competent co-workers. Should any of these be lacking and you suffer an injury to your eye, you should have a successful claim in negligence for compensation against your employer.

Our personal injury compensation claims solicitors

If you have suffered eyesight loss that was not your fault, then you may be able to make a claim for compensation. It is important you seek advice as soon as possible to protect your legal rights. We believe in putting you our client first and we are committed to achieving the best result possible while all the time remaining sensitive to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to us below and will be pleased to discuss your case and offer no obligation advice.

To contact one of our personal injury solicitors please call 0818 888 555 or WhatsApp/call 087 398 7386 or complete our online enquiry form