Traumatic brain injuries are often misunderstood, especially when they appear mild at first. A person may walk, talk, and function normally in the hours or days following a head injury. Friends, coworkers, or medical staff might say, “You seem fine.” But brain trauma is not always immediately apparent. This false sense of security can prevent someone from receiving critical care when it matters most.
At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys have witnessed firsthand how delayed symptoms and early assumptions can lead to missed diagnoses, confusion for families, and lasting harm. Mild traumatic brain injuries deserve immediate attention and should never be underestimated.
The Symptoms of a Mild Brain Injury Can Be Subtle and Delayed
The term “mild” is often misleading. A mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to the initial presentation, not the long-term impact. A person may be conscious and coherent after a fall or a blow to the head. They may answer questions, downplay their symptoms, or desire rest.
It is often only after time passes that symptoms begin to surface.
These may include:
- Memory lapses or confusion.
- Sudden mood changes or irritability.
- Sleep disturbances or extreme fatigue.
- Headaches that worsen or linger.
- Difficulty concentrating or processing information.
These symptoms may not appear for 24 to 72 hours after the injury. When they do, the injured person or their family may feel alarmed, confused, or unsure whether it is serious. Too often, they assume things will improve with rest, delaying the care that could prevent further harm.
Why Families Struggle to Recognize What Is Happening
Family members and friends are often the first to notice when something is amiss. They may see changes in behavior, mood, or speech that the injured person cannot identify in themselves. This disconnect often leads to doubt and inaction.
Well-meaning loved ones may reassure the person that they are fine or encourage them to get some sleep. Others may enable them to move forward with work or legal matters before the full extent of the injury is known. Without proper medical evaluation, however, the injury may continue to worsen or remain undiagnosed.
The Legal Risks of Settling Too Soon
One of the most significant legal risks following a mild TBI is settling a claim too early. Insurance companies often offer low settlements shortly after a claim is filed. They may rely on medical records that show the injured person appeared stable in the first hours or days.
But brain injuries evolve. A person who accepts a fast settlement before a neurologist comprehensively assesses their condition may give up the right to seek future care or compensation. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we help our clients avoid this outcome by thoroughly investigating every brain injury before making decisions.
Speak With a Georgia Brain Injury Attorney Who Understands What You Are Facing
If you or a loved one experienced a head injury and is beginning to see changes in thinking, behavior, or memory, do not wait to seek medical care. Contact Ashby Thelen Lowry at (404) 777-7771 or schedule online for a free consultation. We are here to help you get answers, protect your rights, and pursue the full support you deserve.