A retrospective survey was done of all ocular and adnexal trauma cases seen at a large metropolitan hospital during a 6-month period. By determining patient demographics, causes of the eye injuries, and extent of ocular damage, the authors hoped to delineate areas where preventive measures might decrease such trauma. Demographic and clinical data on 1132 patients were analyzed. Most patients were in the first three decades of life and were male. Blunt trauma was the most common type of injury. Assault was the most common cause and accounted for the highest number of serious injuries. Eye injuries associated with violence are difficult to prevent using conventional strategies that are usually effective in the home and workplace.