Vision Impairment and Maryland Car Accidents

It is no secret that it is a challenge to drive without the ability to see clearly; however, one of the problems with vision is that many people do not realize that they have trouble seeing until it is too late. If someone drives without the ability to see clearly, they are at an increased risk of being involved in a car accident. Vision impairment significantly increases the risk of car accidents, as it hinders a driver’s ability to properly perceive their surroundings, leading to potential misjudgments of distance, speed, and obstacles, which can result in crashes; even moderate visual field loss in one eye can elevate the risk of accidents considerably.

With a staggering 286 million vehicles on the roads, the risk of car crashes is ever-present. Have you ever considered how driving with a vision impairment can significantly raise the risk of car accidents? Vision impairment is one crucial factor that can affect driving safety. Good vision is essential for seeing road signs, spotting hazards, and responding quickly to changing traffic conditions.

Have you ever found yourself behind the wheel, only to realize that your vision may not be as sharp as it should be? Many overlook this scenario, yet driving with impaired vision significantly heightens the risk of car collisions.

This blog explores the connection between vision impairment and car accidents. Join us as we uncover the risks and provide essential insights to keep you safe on Maryland roadways. We will also guide you on where to find the best personal injury attorney in Baltimore when needed.

Understanding Vision Impairment

Vision impairment is any condition affecting a person’s ability to see clearly, recognize faces, read, drive, and perform other activities. The severity can differ from mild to severe and can impact one or both eyes. There are several types of vision impairment, each with its causes and characteristics.

Refractive Errors

Refractive errors are present when the shape of the eye stops light from focusing accurately on the retina, leading to blurred vision. This is the most common type of vision impairment and includes conditions like the following

• Nearsightedness (myopia)
• Farsightedness (hyperopia)
• Astigmatism

Age-Related Vision Changes

As people age, eye changes can lead to vision impairment. This may include presbyopia, a condition where the eye’s lens becomes less flexible, making it hard to focus on close objects.

Cataracts

Cataracts are cloudy areas that form in the eye’s lens, causing blurred or dim vision. They are often linked to aging but can also be caused by factors like

• Injury
• Genetics
• Certain medical conditions

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition that can contribute to optic nerve damage. If left untreated, it can typically lead to vision loss and blindness. It is often linked to increased eye pressure and can develop gradually over time.

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) impacts the macula. This is the part of the retina responsible for our central vision. AMD can cause distorted or blurred vision and, in advanced stages, can lead to permanent vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is an effect of diabetes that influences the blood vessels in the retina. If not managed properly, it can cause vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.

Injuries and Infections

Trauma to the eye can cause immediate or delayed vision problems, depending on the amount of damage. Infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or more severe conditions like keratitis, can result in temporary or permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

Vision impairment can significantly impact a person’s daily activities, quality of life, and independence. Treatment will typically depend on the main cause and can include the following

• Corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses)
• Medication
• Surgery
• Vision rehabilitation services

Impact on Driving Ability

When vision impairment affects driving ability. It can lead to:

• Difficulty reading road signs or recognizing traffic signals
• Reduced ability to see pedestrians, bicyclists, or other motorists
• Challenges with judging the speed and distance of oncoming traffic
• Increased likelihood of missing hazards or obstacles on the roadways

Understanding the Risks

While driving laws may vary across the states in the US, the general requirement is that drivers have 20/40 vision or better in at least one eye to drive without restrictions. However, recent studies suggest that measures beyond acuity, such as losing peripheral vision, also increase the risk of vision related car crashes.

Individuals with vision impairment may face restrictions or conditions on their driver’s license. This can include the requirement to wear contact lenses or corrective lenses (glasses) while driving or limitations on nighttime driving.

Insurance companies may consider vision impairment when determining coverage and premiums. Failure to disclose vision problems could result in denied insurance claims or canceled policies.

Some states require individuals with certain medical conditions, including vision impairment, to report their condition to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or licensing authority. Failure to report a medical condition that affects driving ability could result in legal consequences.

In cases of severe or progressive vision impairment, individuals may be subject to driving restrictions or even license suspension or revocation. These restrictions are meant to protect public safety and prevent car accidents.

Driving Safety Measures: Road Safety Tips

To reduce the risk of vision-related car wrecks and promote road safety, consider the following tips:

• Schedule regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist or optometrist. This will help to detect any vision changes and can prevent car collisions.
• If prescribed corrective lenses, wear them while driving to ensure optimal vision clarity. Be aware of your state’s vision requirements for driving and adhere to any restrictions or regulations.
• Avoid driving at night if your vision is compromised. Vision impairment can be more pronounced in low-light conditions. Some drivers’ sight may also be impaired by the dark, which can affect color recognition, depth perception, and other vision qualities.
• Limit distractions inside the vehicle. This includes using electronic devices or adjusting the radio which can take your focus off the road.
• Pull over safely and get assistance if you experience sudden vision changes or discomfort while driving. Stay informed about your state’s vision requirements for driving and comply with any restrictions or regulations.
• To reduce the risk of auto accidents, obey all traffic laws and signals, including speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals.

Risks of Driving While Ability Impaired

Addressing the risks of driving while ability-impaired will ensure road safety. Vision impairment can significantly increase the likelihood of car collisions, making it essential for drivers to prioritize their eye health. Remember, responsible driving starts with recognizing and addressing impairments that affect your driving abilities.

Navigating the aftermath of a Baltimore car crash caused by someone with vision impairment can feel daunting. That is why the Law Offices of Larry B. Litt is here to provide you with expert legal support and representation. Call us anytime, day or night to discuss your case and how we can guide you confidently through the legal process.

Call a Maryland Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident involving a vision impaired driver, the Law Offices of Larry B. Litt can guide you through the legal process. We can handle the investigative stages of a case, settlement negotiations, and anything in-between. In short, after a car crash, you may not know your rights. Above all, do not struggle through the process alone. Our experienced legal team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your vision impaired auto accident.

When a driver gets behind the wheel knowing their eyesight is limited, they should be held responsible for any injuries and all damages sustained in an auto crash that they cause. To pursue a personal injury, claim against a vision impaired driver, an injury victim must establish that the driver acted negligently. Our legal team has over forty years of experience handling these types of accident cases, we will fight to win your case.

Lastly, let the Law Offices of Larry B. Litt answer your questions and review the facts of your case. Our office is open 24/7/365, call us anytime, day or night, at 443-844-1528 for a free, no-obligation consultation with a motor vehicle collision attorney.