Perforating eye injuries from external rear vision mirrors.

Abstract

Purpose: To highlight external rear vision mirrors as a cause of ocular injuries in motor vehicle accidents.

Methods: Three cases of perforating eye injuries due to shattered external rear vision mirrors in motor vehicle accidents are described. The relevant Australian design rules are reviewed.

Results/conclusion: External rear vision mirrors can be responsible for serious ocular injuries in motor vehicle accidents. Further investigation of the incidence of such injuries is required to determine whether vehicle manufacturing methods and the design rules covering their production warrant revision.