Traumatic brain injuries are among the most serious and valuable personal injury claims due to lifelong medical needs and cognitive impacts.
Average TBI Settlement Amounts
- Mild TBI (concussion with full recovery): $50,000-$150,000
- Moderate TBI (lasting cognitive effects): $500,000-$2 million
- Severe TBI (permanent disability): $2-20 million+
Why TBI Settlements Are So High
- Lifetime medical care: Can cost $3-10 million
- Lost earning capacity: Often cannot work at all
- 24/7 care needs: Severe cases require round-the-clock supervision
- Cognitive impairments: Memory, reasoning, personality changes
- Emotional impact: Depression, anxiety, loss of independence
Types of TBI
Concussion (Mild TBI)
Most recover within 3-6 months. Settlement: $50,000-$200,000
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Symptoms lasting 6+ months. Settlement: $200,000-$750,000
Moderate TBI
Permanent cognitive deficits, can work with accommodations. Settlement: $500,000-$2 million
Severe TBI
Permanent disability, cannot work, needs assistance. Settlement: $2-20 million+
Proving TBI Claims
- Neuropsychological testing: Documents cognitive deficits
- Brain imaging: CT/MRI showing hemorrhage, swelling, or structural damage
- Life care plan: Expert projection of lifetime care costs
- Vocational expert: Testifies to lost earning capacity
Long-Term Costs in TBI Cases
- Lifetime medical care: $3-10 million
- Home modifications: $50,000-$500,000
- Attendant care: $100,000-$300,000/year
- Lost earnings: $1-5 million over career
Common Causes of TBI
- Car accidents (leading cause)
- Slip and falls
- Assaults
- Sports injuries
- Construction accidents
Why You Need an Attorney for TBI Cases
TBI cases are complex and require:
- Life care planners
- Medical experts
- Vocational experts
- Economists
- Trial experience (insurance often forces trial)
Calculate Your TBI Settlement
For catastrophic TBI cases, use our settlement calculator as a starting point, but consult with an experienced TBI attorney for accurate valuation.
SettlementCalcUSA Editorial Team
Our editorial team consists of researchers and writers with backgrounds in legal research, personal injury law, and insurance claims. We compile information from publicly available legal resources, court records, and official state statutes to provide accurate, educational content.
Note: Our content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.