Cost of Brain Injury

Most brain injury survivors are not able to put a price on the emotional and physical suffering that they must endure as a result of their injury. However, when all is said and done most of them can tell you how much their medical care, rehabilitation, and special services have cost.

Annual Costs of Brain Injury in the United States

Every year Americans spend close to $50 billion on traumatic brain injuries. The majority of this money—close to $32 billion—goes toward hospitalization, while the remaining costs are associated with brain injury-related deaths. When all is said and done, the United States spends between $9 and $10 million on acute care and rehabilitation of brain injury annually, according to the Center for Disease Control.

What Will Brain Injury Cost You?

While costs vary from individual to individual, the cost of brain injury is, for the most part, staggering—a mild head injury costs, on average, $85,000 over the course of the survivor’s life, while a severe head injury weighs in at close to $2 million. Because the overwhelming cost of brain injury can result in severe financial hardship for the survivor and his or her family, it’s important that all sources of funding are evaluated. Because some sources of funding—specifically negligent parties, insurance companies, and government benefits—can be complex and difficult to navigate, those facing long-term financial responsibilities related to brain injury will benefit by securing experienced legal counsel. An attorney can help you maximize insurance and government benefits, and can also ensure that you receive any compensation due to you.