Traumatic brain injury can change your life in an instant. Whether caused by a road traffic collision, fall, workplace incident, or another type of accident, the effects of a brain injury are often severe and long-lasting.
At Brian Barr Solicitors, we specialise in representing clients who have sustained catastrophic injuries, including brain and spinal injuries, and those who go on to develop chronic pain conditions. One of the most common questions we are asked is: “How much compensation will I get for a traumatic brain injury?”
The answer is not straightforward as there are many factors that influence a compensation settlement.
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is damaged by a sudden blow, jolt, or impact and can range from mild concussion to life-altering injuries that can result in long-term disability. Symptoms vary widely and may include memory and concentration difficulties, fatigue and sleep disturbance, personality or behavioural changes, mobility and coordination problems, chronic headaches or pain, and reduced independence or need for ongoing care.
Because every brain injury is unique, compensation must reflect the individual circumstances of the injured person. It is generally split into two categories:
- General Damages – for the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity caused by the injury. This reflects the severity and impact of your brain injury on your quality of life.
- Special Damages – covering financial losses and future expenses, which may include:
- Loss of earnings or reduced earning capacity
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
- Adaptations to your home or vehicle
- Care and support needs (both now and in the future)
- Mobility aids and equipment
The level of compensation depends on the severity of your injury and its impact on your life. While each case is assessed individually, the Judicial College Guidelines (used by courts and solicitors in England and Wales) provide a framework:
- Minor brain or head injury: £2,690 to £15,580 (for symptoms such as brief concussion with full recovery).
- Moderate brain injury: £52,550 to £267,340 (where there may be cognitive, memory, or concentration issues, reduced work capacity, or behavioural changes).
- Severe brain injury: £267,340 – £493,000 (covering cases involving substantial disability, full-time care needs, loss of independence, or significant impact on quality of life).
On top of this, special damages for financial losses and care needs can significantly increase the total award, sometimes resulting in multi-million-pound settlements for the most serious cases.
Brain injury claims are complex. They require expert legal representation to ensure the long-term consequences of the injury are properly understood, specialist medical experts are instructed to provide evidence, and your future care, rehabilitation, and financial security are fully accounted for.
