A recent British Medical Journal (BMJ) report found that “bullets” from Nerf guns can cause serious eye injuries. Doctors reported cases of people suffering internal bleeding around the eye, pain and blurred vision after being “shot” by a Nerf gun.
A 32-year-old man was shot in the eye from eight metres away by a child with a Nerf gun. He suffered blurred vision and a red eye.
A 43-year-old woman was shot in her right eye from a distance of one metre and complained of blurred vision and a red, sore eye.
An 11-year-old child also suffered was shot in his right eye from a distance of two metres, and complained of pain and blurred vision.
The packaging for a nerf gun currently states that the product should not be aimed at the eyes or face and that it is only suitable for children aged 8 and up. In light of these recent cases, it has been suggested that this warning does not go far enough. There are now calls for the manufacturers of the Nerf guns to put clear warnings on the packaging advising of safe distances for shooting as well as the need for eye protection. It has also been suggested that the age range of the product be reviewed. Given the recent reported injuries as a result of this product, it may be the case that the manufacturers decide to strengthen their safety advice and restrict who can use the product.
At Jackson Boyd we have a wealth of experience in dealing with cases where someone has suffered an injury to the eyes. We understand that such injuries can be very traumatic and life changing.
People quite often ask how we would look to value an injury to the eyes. Our starting point would be The Judicial College Guidelines. This is how we will always look to value the injuries you have sustained as the result of an accident. The Judicial College Guidelines provide guidance as to the likely range of compensation for a specific type of injury. For instance, the guidelines state that someone who has suffered total blindness would be entitled to compensation in the region of £204,250. The complete loss of sight in one eye can range from £6,925 to £41,675. As well as looking into the injury that you have suffered we would also consider what further treatment you have received or is recommended.
If you consider that you may have a personal injury claim caused by the negligence of another party then please contact us online by clicking here or speak to a member of our specialist team on 0333 222 1855.
