Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most devastating outcomes of accidents in California. Whether caused by car crashes, motorcycle wrecks, slip and falls, or workplace incidents, brain injuries can lead to lifelong medical costs, permanent disability, and wrongful death. The numbers show just how serious the problem is across the state and nationwide.

Here are 20 key brain injury statistics in California for 2025.

General Brain Injury Data

1. In the U.S., about 1.5 million people suffer a traumatic brain injury each year. (Source: https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/data/index.html)
2. California consistently reports one of the highest numbers of TBIs in the nation due to its large population.
3. Approximately 166 people die each day nationwide from TBI-related injuries.
4. TBIs contribute to 30% of all injury-related deaths.

Hospitalization & Medical Costs

5. Every year, more than 64,000 TBI-related deaths occur across the U.S.
6. California hospitals admit tens of thousands of patients annually for head injuries.
7. The average lifetime cost of care for a severe TBI patient ranges from $85,000 to over $3 million.
8. Hospitalizations for TBIs are highest among older adults and accident victims over 65.

Causes of Brain Injuries

9. Car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries in California.
10. Slip and fall accidents account for nearly 50% of all TBIs among seniors. (State reference: https://www.ots.ca.gov/media-and-research/collision-data/)
11. Motorcycle accidents often cause severe TBIs due to direct head impact.
12. Workplace accidents, particularly construction falls and struck-by incidents remain a significant contributor.

Long-Term Effects

13. About 5.3 million Americans live with a TBI-related disability.
14. TBIs are linked to long-term problems with memory, cognition, and mood regulation.
15. Survivors face an increased risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
16. Children with TBIs may experience learning disabilities and developmental delays.

Legal & Claim Data

17. The average settlement for TBI lawsuits in California is substantially higher than for other injury types, often exceeding $500,000.
18. Severe TBI wrongful death claims may result in multi-million dollar jury awards.
19. TBI cases typically take 18–24 months to litigate due to medical complexity.
20. Victims represented by experienced attorneys secure payouts that are on average 3 times higher than those without representation. (Legal perspective: https://www.brainline.org/article/facts-about-traumatic-brain-injury)

Final Thoughts

Brain injuries are among the most serious consequences of accidents in California. From medical bills and lost income to lifelong disabilities, TBIs change victims’ lives forever. At Hillstone Law, we help families pursue justice and fair compensation in these difficult cases.