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Understanding the True Impact of a Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury can occur in an instant, but its effects often emerge gradually. You may feel “off” days or weeks later, struggling with headaches, fatigue, memory problems, mood changes, or difficulty concentrating. Loved ones may notice changes in personality, patience, or emotional regulation that were not present before the injury.

What makes these cases especially difficult is that many symptoms are invisible. Insurance companies often look for clear imaging results, even though many TBIs do not appear on CT scans or MRIs. This is particularly common when a brain injury occurs alongside neck, back, or spinal injuries, leaving people managing overlapping symptoms and recovery paths at the same time.

When you need a traumatic brain injury lawyer in Cleveland, OH to help untangle complex medical and legal issues, it is important to work with a team that takes the injury seriously and helps you build a clear, supported plan forward. The claims process can feel overwhelming when you are dealing with pain, appointments, and financial uncertainty. A lawyer can step in and manage the pressure so you can focus on getting your life back. 

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury, often called a TBI, happens when a sudden blow, jolt, or impact disrupts normal brain function. TBIs range from concussions to severe brain injuries that result in long-term or permanent impairment. Common causes include car crashes, falls, motorcycle collisions, bicycle accidents, workplace incidents, and being struck by objects.

Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to light or noise, sleep disruption, mood changes, and slowed thinking. For a clear medical overview of how TBIs are identified and treated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides accessible information that many families find helpful while navigating diagnosis and recovery.

Cases Won Real Outcomes for Real People

$3.6 Million

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports...

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports that characterized their elderly father as a reckless motorcyclist. After a complex accident reconstruction identified the negligence of multiple parties, the case was settled during a second private mediation.

Motorcycle Accident | Marysville, Ohio

$1.6 Million

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as...

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as a result of the injury. Unfortunately, Ohio has a cap of $250,000 for non-economic damages, with no exceptions, for cases against political subdivisions. Through a comprehensive case work up and well versed arguments presenting a real threat to challenging the constitutionality of caps on damages, we were able to negotiate a higher settlement than what was provided under the law.

Pedestrian Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$1.3 Million

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with three young adult siblings.  TSF was engaged to serve as local counsel to assist with the litigation, mediation, and resolution of the case.

Truck Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$600,000

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left and turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing serious injury. An accident reconstructionist was retained to disprove inflammatory witness accounts of speed, as motorcyclists are commonly accused of speeding due to the sound of their bike. 

Motorcycle Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$500,000

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic...

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with an oncoming motorist. Client sustained serious injuries requring extensive hospitalization and rehab.  He and his wife heavily relied upon counsel to guide them through the maze of medical bills and insurance claims so they could focus on healing and recovery.  Settlement was further maximized through negotiations with multiple lienholders.

Car Accident | Galion, Ohio

$135,000

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert...

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert to demonstrate permanency of scarring to enhance case value

Dog Bite | Marysville, Ohio

$100,000

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash...

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash and injury to college aged passenger. Policy limits settlement offer obtained despite minimal medical treatment options and $5,000 in medical bills. Client was unsure how to protect her concern for permanent injury and retained counsel to help her obtain expert testimony to document permanent injury to justify the policy limits settlement.

Car Accident | Mentor, Ohio
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How a TBI Lawyer Helps Protect Your Claim

  • Documenting Invisible Symptoms: Brain injuries are often minimized because symptoms are not outwardly obvious. A thorough legal approach documents cognitive, emotional, and functional changes through medical records, therapy notes, and real-world impact evidence.
  • Protecting You While Prognosis Develops: It often takes time to understand how a brain injury will affect work, relationships, and independence. A brain injury attorney helps prevent rushed decisions before long-term needs and limitations are clear.
  • A Strategy Aligned With Your Goals: Some clients want efficient resolution, while others need time and leverage to pursue full value. A collaborative approach ensures the strategy reflects what matters most to you and your family.
  • Responding to Insurance Pushback: Insurers may question symptom severity or attribute changes to stress or preexisting conditions. A well-prepared claim keeps the focus on what changed after the injury and why it matters.
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Do I Have a Traumatic Brain Injury Claim?

A traumatic brain injury claim may be appropriate if negligence caused the injury and the effects are disrupting your life. You should consider legal guidance if you required emergency treatment, lost consciousness, or continue to experience symptoms weeks or months later. Many people also pursue claims when a TBI interferes with work performance, daily responsibilities, or their sense of identity.

TBIs frequently occur alongside neck injuries, spinal instability, or serious back trauma requiring long-term treatment. When injuries overlap, working with a brain injury attorney in Cleveland who understands how to document complex, layered harm helps ensure nothing is overlooked. Timing also matters. Ohio personal injury claims are subject to legal deadlines. For plain-language guidance on legal rights and next steps, Ohio Legal Help can be a helpful resource. The Ohio Revised Code provides the statutory framework governing many civil claims.

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What to Expect in a Traumatic Brain Injury Case

Step One: Listening to How Your Life Has Changed

We begin by understanding what happened and what feels different now. We discuss symptoms, medical visits, work challenges, and how your daily routine and relationships may be affected. This shapes a strategy built around your reality, not assumptions.

Step Two: Medical Documentation and Evidence Building

Traumatic brain injury cases depend on careful documentation. We gather emergency records, imaging results, follow-up care notes, therapy documentation, and specialist evaluations. We also develop evidence showing real-world impact, such as missed work, activity limitations, and observations from family members.

Step Three: Claim Development and Valuation

Once the picture is clear, we build a claim reflecting medical costs, lost income, and the full effect on your daily life. This includes cognitive and emotional consequences that may not appear on imaging but significantly affect your ability to function.

Step Four: Litigation When It Protects Your Future

Some cases resolve through negotiation. Others require litigation when insurers refuse to acknowledge the seriousness of a brain injury. If litigation becomes necessary, we proceed with a trial-ready case focused on long-term stability.

We prepare every case as if it may go to trial, because preparation matters. Still, many cases settle after filing, without ever reaching a courtroom.

Meet Your Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Proven Leaders in Ohio Personal Injury Law

Our team of local attorneys were hand-selected for their experience and leadership in client service, top legal organizations, and our communities.

Founder

Nathan J. Stuckey

  • Immediate Past President of Ohio Association for Justice
  • The National Trial Lawyers, Top 100
  • Ohio Super Lawyers
Read Nathan's Bio

Partner

Sydney S. McLafferty

  • Past President, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Active Member, American Association of Justice
  • National Women’s Trial Lawyers, Top 25
Read Sydney's Bio

Partner

J. Michael Vervoort

  • Board Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
  • Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys
Read Michael's Bio

Attorney

Paul (PJ) Jacob Ratcliffe

  • Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
Read Paul's Bio

Attorney

Christian W. Sorg

  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, Clark County Bar Association
  • Founding Board Member, Recon & Sniper Foundation
Read Christian's Bio

Attorney

James E. Heath

  • Past President, Clark County Bar Association
  • Board Member, Clark County Sportsman’s Club
  • Former Captian, U.S. Army JAG Corps
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Of Counsel

Christian R. Patno

  • Of Counsel
  • President, American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
Read Christian's Bio

Common Causes and Complications of TBIs

Traumatic brain injuries can occur in many situations, and the cause often shapes how the case is handled. Auto accidents and falls are common, but workplace incidents and unsafe property conditions also play a role. TBIs are often complicated by delayed symptoms, inconsistent treatment, or pressure to return to work before recovery is complete.

Many clients feel frustrated because they appear fine outwardly but do not feel like themselves. That is why a TBI claim must be presented with care, evidence, and a strategy that connects medical findings to the daily challenges insurers often overlook.

“From the very beginning, Michael was professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated to helping me. He explained everything clearly and worked hard to achieve the best possible outcome. I highly recommend The Stuckey Firm.”

—A.M.

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Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Personal, Client-Centered Approach

The Stuckey Firm was built to provide high-touch, attorney-driven representation. We work with you, not just for you, so you understand decisions and remain in control throughout the process.

Trial-Ready Preparation Without Shortcuts

Brain injury cases require precision. We focus on documentation, credibility, and client-specific strategy. When litigation is warranted, we are prepared with a case built for serious evaluation.

Credibility That Commands Attention

Our attorneys are respected statewide, including leadership within the Ohio legal community. That credibility matters when insurers and defense counsel need to treat a brain injury claim with appropriate seriousness.

Traumatic Brain Injuries Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a traumatic brain injury if imaging is normal?

Yes. Many concussions and mild TBIs do not appear on standard imaging. Symptoms and functional changes documented through medical care often provide the strongest evidence.

What if symptoms started days after the accident?

Delayed symptoms are common with TBIs. Prompt medical evaluation and documentation of when symptoms began are important, and delayed onset does not automatically weaken a claim.

What compensation may be available for a TBI?

Compensation may include medical expenses, future care needs, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and the impact on daily functioning. Recovery depends on injury severity, documentation, and long-term needs.

How is a traumatic brain injury proven legally?

Proof typically comes from consistent medical documentation, specialist evaluation, therapy records, and evidence showing how daily life changed after the injury.

Should I settle while still in treatment?

Often, settling too early can undervalue a brain injury. Many long-term effects become clearer over time. An attorney can help assess whether it is too early to determine full value.

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Get Guidance About Your Brain Injury

If you are experiencing concussion symptoms, cognitive changes, or lingering effects after an accident, you do not have to navigate the next steps alone. Contact The Stuckey Firm for a confidential consultation with a TBI lawyer in Cleveland who will take your recovery seriously and help protect your future.

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If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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