Damage to the eyes can result in permanent visual impairments or blindness, with major consequences for daily life and often high compensation awards in Utrecht.
Types of Eye Injury
Eye injury can occur in various ways and differs in severity and impact.
Common Eye Injuries
| Type of Injury | Cause | Possible Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Corneal Damage | Scratch or chemical exposure | Scarring, reduced vision |
| Retinal Detachment | Blunt trauma | Vision loss, blindness |
| Lens Damage | Penetrating injury | Traumatic cataract, lens replacement |
| Optic Nerve Damage | Head trauma | Permanent vision loss |
| Orbital Fracture | Blunt injury | Double vision, displacement of eyeball |
| Chemical Damage | Caustic substances | Severe damage, blindness |
Measurement of Vision
The severity of vision loss is determined by visual acuity and visual field.
Visual Acuity Levels
| Visual Acuity Value | Category | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Normal Vision | No limitations in activities |
| 0.5 | Mildly Reduced | Driver's license usually still obtainable |
| 0.3 | Visually Impaired | Aids required, no driver's license |
| 0.1 | Severely Visually Impaired | Need for magnification for reading |
| <0.05 | Legally Blind | Use of guide dog or cane |
Impact on Daily Life
Reduced vision affects virtually all areas of life.
Limitations in Utrecht
Movement and Mobility
- Driving no longer possible
- Difficulty navigating in new environments
- Increased risk of tripping or collisions
- Reliance on public transport or assistance from others
Career and Education
- Many jobs no longer feasible
- Screen work becomes difficult or impossible
- Need for retraining
- Workplace adaptations required
Daily Tasks
- Reading books, letters or labels
- Performing household chores
- Shopping independently
- Pursuing hobbies and recreation
- Social contacts (recognizing faces)
Support and Aids
In case of vision loss, various aids and adaptations are available in Utrecht.
Overview of Aids
| Aid | Use | Price Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Magnifying Glass | Reading small text | €40 - €450 |
| Screen Magnifier | Working on computer | €600 - €4.500 |
| Text-to-Speech Technology | Converting text to speech | €900 - €2.800 |
| White Cane | Navigation and detection | €60 - €180 |
| Guide Dog | Assistance outside the home | Training via organizations |
| Speech Software | Computer control | €400 - €1.800 |
Damage Claims for Eye Injury in Utrecht
The financial impact of eye injury can be significant, especially in cases of permanent vision loss.
Indication of Non-Material Damage Compensation
| Type of Damage | Non-Material Damage Estimate |
|---|---|
| Loss of one eye | €30.000 - €55.000 |
| Blindness in one eye | €35.000 - €65.000 |
| Severe Vision Loss Both Eyes | €55.000 - €130.000 |
| Total Blindness | €140.000 - €260.000 |
| Incurable Double Vision | €20.000 - €45.000 |
Other Damage Components
Loss of Earning Capacity
In cases of severe vision loss, working is often impossible. For young victims, the damage can run into millions.
Costs for Support
Long-term expenses for aids, adaptations and guidance.
Domestic Assistance
In cases of severe visual impairments, support is needed for household tasks, administration and transport.
Practical Advice in Utrecht
- Always have eye injury examined by a specialist
- Record your vision before and after the incident
- Request referral to visual rehabilitation
- Explore options for aids and adaptations
- Do not agree to a final settlement until your situation is stable
Legal Assistance in Utrecht
For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. In addition, the Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, located at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, handles cases regarding personal injury and compensation.