TBI Classifications & Severity

By Jason Hicks | Updated: Jan 2026

Traumatic brain injuries are classified by severity based on loss of consciousness, post-traumatic amnesia, and the Glasgow Coma Scale score.

Mild TBI (Concussion)

  • Loss of consciousness: 0-30 minutes
  • Post-traumatic amnesia: Less than 24 hours
  • GCS score: 13-15

Despite being called "mild," these injuries can cause lasting cognitive problems.

Moderate TBI

  • Loss of consciousness: 30 minutes to 24 hours
  • Post-traumatic amnesia: 1-7 days
  • GCS score: 9-12

Severe TBI

  • Loss of consciousness: More than 24 hours
  • Post-traumatic amnesia: More than 7 days
  • GCS score: 3-8

Severe TBI often results in permanent disability requiring lifetime care.

Jason Hicks

About the Author

Jason Hicks is a trial lawyer specializing in catastrophic injury and civil rights litigation. He has recovered over $30 million for clients across Oklahoma.