Loss of Vision

Being able to see clearly is essential for many aspects of life. Unfortunately, workplace accidents and hazardous conditions can result in partial or total loss of vision, severely impacting a person’s ability to work and live independently. While money cannot compensate for the loss of sight, Maryland law allows employees who suffer from work-related loss of vision to recover workers’ compensation benefits to help them obtain the medical care they need and offset their financial harm. If you or a loved one is experiencing vision loss caused by workplace conditions or incidents, it is smart to talk to an attorney about your rights. The experienced Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys at Foran & Foran, P.A. can inform you of your options and help you take the steps necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Loss of vision can result from a variety of work-related incidents, including chemical splashes, flying debris, exposure to bright lights or radiation, and traumatic injuries to the eyes or head. Additionally, workers in certain industries, such as construction, welding, manufacturing, and laboratory work, are at a higher risk of developing vision loss due to prolonged exposure to harmful elements like dust, fumes, and ultraviolet light. Over time, chronic eye strain caused by repetitive tasks, poor lighting, or improper equipment can also contribute to gradual loss of vision. The impact of vision loss can be devastating, both personally and professionally. Workers suffering from vision impairment may find it impossible to perform tasks requiring focus, precision, or coordination, such as operating machinery, driving, or reading. Even partial loss of vision can create significant limitations and lead to long-term disability. In addition to the physical challenges, individuals with vision loss often face emotional distress, loss of independence, and financial hardships. For those whose jobs depend on full visual acuity, the loss of vision can mean the end of their careers, requiring them to seek alternative employment or retraining.

Pursuant to Maryland’s Workers’ Compensation Act, employees who experience work-related loss of vision are entitled to benefits that address their medical treatment and wage losses. Medical benefits include all reasonable and necessary expenses for treating the eye injury or condition, such as doctor’s visits, surgeries, medications, and assistive devices like corrective lenses or prosthetics. Wage replacement benefits depend on the nature and extent of the vision loss. If a worker is temporarily unable to work while recovering, they may receive temporary total disability benefits, which are calculated at two-thirds of their average weekly wage, subject to the statutory maximum. For workers who can return to work in a limited capacity with reduced earnings, temporary partial disability benefits provide compensation for two-thirds of the difference between pre-injury earnings and current wages.

In cases involving permanent loss of vision, permanent partial disability benefits may be awarded. Compensation for permanent partial disability is based on the degree of vision impairment and the percentage loss of visual function, as determined through medical evaluation. Maryland’s statutory schedule assigns a certain number of weeks of benefits for different types of vision loss, such as complete blindness in one or both eyes. If the worker suffers from permanent total disability, where vision loss prevents them from engaging in any form of gainful employment, they are entitled to lifetime benefits calculated at two-thirds of their average weekly wage.

Loss of vision can have a profound impact on your life, preventing you from working, living independently, and enjoying activities you once loved. If you experienced partial or total loss of vision due to a workplace accident or occupational exposure, you may be able to recover workers’ compensation benefits, and you should contact an attorney. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our capable Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys have the knowledge and experience needed to help you understand your legal rights and advocate for the benefits you deserve. Our office is in Greenbelt, Maryland, and we regularly represent people in workers’ compensation claims in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, La Plata, Waldorf, Silver Spring, Rockville, and other cities in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, and all counties in the State of Maryland. To set up a free and confidential consultation, please contact us online or call (301) 441-2022.