Traumatic brain injuries occur when violent angular or linear acceleration forces cause the brain to impact the interior cranial vault. Claims adjusters require objective neurological documentation and clinical testing batteries to distinguish closed-head trauma from transient disorientation.
Diagnostic Requirement 1
Emergency Department triage records documenting Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, loss of consciousness (LOC) duration, or acute post-traumatic amnesia (PTA).
Diagnostic Requirement 2
Formal evaluation by a board-certified neurologist or neuropsychologist diagnosing post-concussion syndrome (PCS) or cognitive processing deficit.
Diagnostic Requirement 3
Standardized neurocognitive assessment data (such as ImPACT testing) demonstrating measurable impairment in memory, reaction time, and executive functioning.
Diagnostic Requirement 4
Vestibular and ocular motor screening (VOMS) verifying post-traumatic balance dysfunction, light sensitivity (photophobia), and visual tracking deficits.
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) for Brain Injury
The typical recovery window to reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) for this diagnosis is 6 to 24 months of specialized neurological and cognitive therapy.. Under Montana insurance claims standards, executing a release of liability before reaching MMI permanently forfeits your right to compensation for ongoing medical complications or permanent impairment.