When most people hear “traumatic brain injury,” they think of someone getting knocked unconscious in a car crash or falling and hitting their head. But here's something many injury victims—and insurance adjusters—don't realize:

You do not need to lose consciousness to suffer a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

And just as importantly, the symptoms of a mild TBI may not appear right away. That's why so many victims go undiagnosed in the critical hours and days after a crash or fall.

What Is a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury?

A mild TBI, also called a concussion, happens when the brain moves or twists suddenly inside the skull. This can be caused by:
• A blow to the head (common in car crashes or slip and falls)
• Whiplash (even without hitting your head)
• Sudden acceleration or deceleration forces

Even though it's called “mild,” the effects can be serious—especially if left untreated.

Myth: You Must Lose Consciousness to Have a Brain Injury

Truth: Most people with mild TBIs never lose consciousness at all.

According to the CDC and leading neurologists, loss of consciousness is not required for a TBI diagnosis. You can suffer a brain injury even if you're awake and talking after the accident. In fact, that's what makes these cases so complicated—the injured person may not realize they've suffered a brain injury until days or even weeks later.

Symptoms of Mild TBI Can Be Delayed

The symptoms of mild TBI often don't show up immediately. Some common signs may emerge gradually:
• Headaches that won't go away
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Brain fog or memory issues
• Mood swings or personality changes
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Difficulty concentrating

Many of these symptoms can be mistaken for stress or fatigue, especially after a traumatic event. That's why early medical evaluation is critical—even if you feel “okay” right after the incident.

Why It Matters in a Personal Injury Case

If you're pursuing a personal injury claim in Connecticut, the defense may argue that your brain injury isn't real because you didn't lose consciousness or didn't go to the ER right away. But that's not how mild TBI works.

As a personal injury law firm that handles traumatic brain injury cases, we work with medical experts who understand the science behind delayed-onset symptoms and how to properly document and treat these cases.

Protect Yourself After a Head Injury

If you've been in a car crash, slip and fall, or hit your head in any way:
1. Seek medical care right away—even if you feel “fine.”
2. Watch for delayed symptoms in the days and weeks that follow.
3. Document everything—including how you're feeling day by day.
4. Contact an attorney who understands TBI and will fight to make sure your injuries are taken seriously.

We're Here to Help

At my law firm, we help Connecticut residents get the care and compensation they deserve after a brain injury. You don't need to lose consciousness for your injury to be real—and you don't have to face the legal system alone.
Call us for a free consultation if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a brain injury after an accident. We'll listen. We'll believe you. And we'll fight for you.