The Cost of a Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have devastating effects on victims and their families. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, TBIs often come with significant financial burdens. From immediate medical expenses to long-term care needs, the costs associated with a TBI can be overwhelming. At Kalfayan Merjanian, LLP, our experienced California personal injury attorneys understand the challenges faced by TBI victims and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve.

Below we discuss some of the many costs associated with a traumatic brain injury. If you or a loved one suffered a TBI because of another’s negligence, contact our office to discuss your claim and find out how we can help.

Immediate and Short-Term Costs

When a person suffers a TBI, they often require immediate medical attention, which can include emergency medical treatment amounting to tens of thousands of dollars due to ambulance transportation, emergency room visits, and intensive care unit (ICU) stays. Expensive diagnostic testing such as CT scans, MRIs, and neurological evaluations will also likely be necessary to assess the severity of the injury. In many situations, surgery is required to relieve pressure on the brain or repair skull fractures. Extended hospitalization for monitoring and treatment can add up quickly.

These initial costs can range from $10,000 to over $100,000, depending on the severity of the injury and required treatments.

Long-Term Medical Expenses

For many TBI victims, the road to recovery is long and uncertain and often requires ongoing medical care. Most TBI sufferers will require a period of rehabilitation and therapy, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help victims regain lost abilities. Prescription medications may be necessary to manage pain, seizures, or mental health conditions, and the costs can add up over time. If the victim is unable to live independently, costly long-term care may be necessary, whether in a skilled nursing facility, assisted living facility, or in-home care. Medical equipment and modifications such as wheelchairs, adaptive devices, and home modifications can improve quality of life but come with substantial costs.

Depending on the severity of the TBI, long-term medical costs can range from $100,000 to millions of dollars over a lifetime.

Lost Income and Diminished Earning Capacity

Many TBI victims are unable to return to work, either temporarily or permanently. This can result in lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and loss of benefits. Time off work for treatment and recovery is almost certainly necessary but can lead to significant financial strain. A severe TBI may prevent a victim from working in their previous profession, forcing them to take lower-paying jobs or leave the workforce entirely. Health insurance, retirement contributions, and other employment benefits may be lost if a victim is unable to return to work.

The financial impact of lost income can be substantial, potentially reaching hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars over a lifetime.

Emotional and Psychological Costs

The financial costs of a TBI go beyond medical expenses and lost wages. Victims often suffer from chronic pain and discomfort, depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or cognitive impairments affecting memory and concentration. These effects can diminish quality of life and create additional expenses for therapy, counseling, and mental health treatment.

Additional Costs Associated with TBIs

Aside from direct medical and financial costs, TBI victims often face unexpected expenses, such as transportation costs, home and vehicle modifications, and assistance for daily activities. Many TBI victims require specialized transportation, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles or medical transport services for ongoing doctor visits. In cases of severe disability, homes may need ramps, wider doorways, or other modifications to accommodate mobility challenges. Vehicle adaptations may also be necessary. Some TBI victims may require personal aides to assist with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.

Long-Term Financial Planning for TBI Victims

Given the high costs associated with a traumatic brain injury, victims and their families should consider financial planning options, including:

• Disability benefits: Victims who are unable to work may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
• Structured settlements: If a personal injury lawsuit results in a settlement, structuring payments over time can help ensure long-term financial stability.
• Life care planning: Working with medical and financial professionals to create a comprehensive plan for long-term care and expenses can help alleviate financial stress.

Holding Responsible Parties Accountable

If a TBI was caused by someone else’s negligence—such as in a car accident, slip and fall, or medical malpractice—victims may be entitled to compensation for their damages. A successful personal injury claim can cover the full range of expenses and losses involved, including:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation costs
• Home and vehicle modifications

Get Legal Help Today

At Kalfayan Merjanian, LLP, we are dedicated to helping California TBI victims and their families recover the compensation they need to move forward. Our skilled attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and aggressively pursue the maximum compensation available.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in California due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us today for a free consultation. We will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure you receive the financial support necessary for your recovery.