Although most people think of safety gear as simply helmets, which are required for riders under the age of 18, another important piece is available. Eye protection can provide riders protection from not only debris during an accident, but also from debris they may encounter on the road. As of 2012, Connecticut motorcycle riders must use eye protection unless their motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen. Failure to use the appropriate gear could lead to being fined as well as injuries in the case of an accident.
In Connecticut, there were more than 1,500 motorcycle collisions reported in 2008, the most recent year for which data is available. Approximately 75% of these collisions led to serious injuries. Due to the design of most motorcycles, riders often do not have any type of protection from outside hazards and other vehicles. Commonly motorcycle drivers and riders have to wear their own safety gear to protect themselves in case of a motorcycle collision.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, the victim may be entitled to compensation for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages and more. For a no-cost, no-obligation evaluation of your accident claim, fill out the ‘Free Case Evaluaiton’ form to your right to reach us at Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers.
The Most Common Types Of Eye Injuries
It is estimated that approximately 2.4 million people seek emergency room assistance due to some type of issue with their eyes, approximately 36% of these visitors suffered from serious eye injuries. While a helmet can help prevent serious head trauma and facial injuries, the addition of eye protection can guard one of the most fragile parts of the human body.
Some common types of eye injuries include:
- Corneal Abrasion
- Torn Tear Duct
- Eye Swelling
- Eye Bleeding
- Traumatic Iritis
- Orbital Blowouts
If you experience any type of eye injury it is important to seek medical assistance right away in order to prevent the injury from worsening or causing permanent damage.
What Are The Types Of Eye Protection?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, eye protection can prevent vision impairment caused by wind blasts and foreign objects and can also prevent eye injuries.
Here are a few common types of protective eyewear:
- Goggles
- Face Shields
- Motorcycle Windshields
Face shields are those that are already attached to the motorcycle helmet whereas goggles are worn separately. A plastic shatter-resistant face shield is one of the safest types of eye protection, followed closely by goggles. Some believe that wearing sunglasses is enough however such eyewear can easily come off at the point of impact with another vehicle or object.
To be effective, face shields and goggles should be:
- Free of Scratches
- Resistant to Penetration
- Provide a Clear View to Either Side
- Fasten Securely
- Permit Air to Pass-Through (Reduces Chances of Fogging)
- Have Enough Room for Eye or Sunglasses (if needed)
Furthermore, tinted eye protection should not be worn at night or when visibility has been reduced. It is important that riders also choose eye protection that will be free from glare as it could lead to decreased visibility during sunny weather.
Learn More About Safety: Speak With Our Attorneys
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers we understand how important using safety devices in any type of vehicle can be life-saving. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a careless driver, our attorneys can help. With more than 140 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys are knowledgeable in motorcycle accident claims and can help you fight for your right to fair and just compensation. We can provide comprehensive legal counsel and help guide you through the entire litigation process while you comfortably recover from your injuries.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 800-PERKINS to get started on your motorcycle accident claim today. One of our steadfast intake staff members will connect you with one of our lawyers best suited in handling your claim. You can also contact us online by filling out the Free Case Evaluation form on this page – it’s free to submit and strictly confidential.