Injuries to the eyes
There are a number of different types of eye injury that cause severe discomfort at best and permanent damage at worst. Scratches and cuts to the cornea can be dangerous and should be treated straight away. Foreign bodies, including things as insignificant as a speck of dust or sand, can cause immense pain. Burns can also occur through contact with chemicals, aerosols, steam or hot water.
Many incidents involving eye injuries occur in the workplace often as a result of carelessness or lack of adequate safety procedures and/or training. It is important when working in potentially dangerous situations to wear suitable protective clothing and eye goggles. Failure of an employer to provide any of the above can improve the chance of a successful claim being made.
Eye injuries or black eyes can occur as a result of sporting events or from physical assault. In the event of a sports injury, a claim can only be made if it can be proven the opponent acted with malicious intent. If the eye injury occurred from an assault it will also be necessary to go through police procedures as well.
Compensation pay scales can vary. Claims for minor damage where pain or discomfort has occurred can pay between £2,000 to £4,000. While more serious damage for example double vision which leaves no permanent damage can range from £6,000 to £10,000. Claims for loss of an eye have been known to pay up to £30,000. If you have sustained an eye injury recently it is worth seeking legal advice if you feel someone else has acted in an irresponsible manner.