Moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries represent catastrophic, life-altering events. Victims may face permanent disability, require lifetime care, and never return to the life they knew before. These cases involve substantial damages but also require extensive medical evidence and expert testimony.

Classification

Moderate TBI

  • Loss of consciousness 30 minutes to 24 hours
  • Post-traumatic amnesia 1-7 days
  • Glasgow Coma Scale score 9-12
  • Often visible on brain imaging

Severe TBI

  • Loss of consciousness over 24 hours
  • Post-traumatic amnesia over 7 days
  • Glasgow Coma Scale score 3-8
  • Typically shows significant imaging abnormalities
  • May result in coma, vegetative state, or death

Long-Term Consequences

Moderate to severe TBI often causes permanent impairment:

Cognitive Effects

  • Memory impairment (short-term and long-term)
  • Slowed processing speed
  • Difficulty with complex thinking
  • Impaired judgment and problem-solving
  • Communication difficulties

Physical Effects

  • Motor impairments and paralysis
  • Chronic headaches and pain
  • Seizure disorders
  • Vision and hearing problems
  • Balance and coordination issues

Emotional/Behavioral Effects

  • Personality changes
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Impulsivity and poor emotional regulation
  • Aggression and irritability
  • Social difficulties

Lifetime Care Needs

Severe TBI often requires:

  • 24-hour care – Attendants for daily activities
  • Residential facilities – Specialized brain injury programs
  • Ongoing rehabilitation – Physical, occupational, speech therapy
  • Medication management – Seizure prevention, psychiatric medications
  • Home modifications – Accessibility for wheelchair or mobility aids
  • Case management – Coordinating multiple providers

Damages in Severe TBI Cases

Catastrophic TBI cases can involve damages in the millions or tens of millions:

  • Lifetime medical care – Often $5-15 million or more
  • Lost earning capacity – Complete inability to work
  • Pain and suffering – Profound and permanent
  • Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in former activities
  • Loss of consortium – Impact on family relationships

Expert Witnesses

Severe TBI cases require multiple experts:

  • Neurologists – Diagnosis and prognosis
  • Life care planners – Future care needs and costs
  • Economists – Lost earning capacity
  • Neuropsychologists – Cognitive testing
  • Vocational experts – Work capacity

Conclusion

Moderate to severe TBI cases represent the highest-stakes brain injury litigation. Victims and families need attorneys with resources and experience to develop comprehensive evidence of lifetime needs and fight for compensation that will provide care for decades to come.