Food Service Worker Injured in Tennessee?
Last updated: 2026 · Verified against Tennessee DWC regulations
Reviewed by: James R. Holloway, Esq.
Workers' Compensation Attorney · CA Bar #248701 · 14 yrs exp.
Last reviewed: January 2026 · Verified against state DWC regulations
Find out what your head & brain injury (tbi) claim is worth. Tennessee workers typically receive $7,000–$60,000. Free, no-obligation assessment.
$7,000
Avg low
$60,000
Avg high
1 year
Deadline
Pre-filled for your situation — just add your wage & impairment info.
Tell us about your work
Your estimated weekly TTD benefit: $533/week
67%
of avg weekly wage (TTD)
$1,116
max weekly benefit
20%
typical attorney fee
1
filing deadline
Tennessee Workers' Comp Law — Key Facts
Governing statute: T.C.A. § 50-6-101 et seq.
TTD rate: 67% of average weekly wage
Maximum weekly benefit: $1,116
Statute of limitations: 1 year from injury
Filing deadline: Report to employer within 15 days
Key features of Tennessee's system:
- ✓ Court of Workers' Compensation Claims (dedicated court system)
- ✓ AMA 6th Edition for impairment ratings
- ✓ Mandatory mediation before trial
Tennessee's Bureau of Workers' Compensation was substantially reformed in 2013 with the Tennessee Workers' Compensation Reform Act. The Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) administers the system, with a new Court of Workers' Compensation Claims replacing the former circuit court system. Tennessee uses AMA Guides, 6th Edition for impairment ratings. Attorney fees are limited to 20% of awarded benefits.
What to Expect with Head & Brain Injury (TBI) in Tennessee
25%
Average impairment rating
$85,000
Average medical costs
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) represent some of the most complex and high-value workers' compensation claims. Even mild TBI (concussion) can produce persistent post-concussion syndrome — headaches, cognitive impairment, light sensitivity, and emotional dysregulation — that prevents return to skilled work for extended periods. Moderate and severe TBI can result in permanent cognitive deficits, seizure disorders, and the need for long-term care. TBI claims require multidisciplinary documentation from neurologists, neuropsychologists, and occupational therapists. Average settlement values for significant TBI are well above $100,000 and can exceed $1 million in severe cases with permanent total disability. Falls from elevation (construction) and vehicle accidents are the leading causes of work-related TBI.
Common treatments
- ✓ Acute hospitalization and neurosurgical evaluation
- ✓ CT and MRI neuroimaging
- ✓ Neuropsychological testing (baseline and follow-up)
- ✓ Cognitive rehabilitation therapy
- ✓ Occupational therapy for daily living skills
- ✓ Psychiatric treatment for mood disorders and PTSD
Documentation needed
- ✓ Emergency room and hospital records
- ✓ CT scan and brain MRI reports
- ✓ Neuropsychologist evaluation reports
- ✓ Neurologist treatment notes
- ✓ Witness statements and incident report
- ✓ Pre-injury employment and academic records (for cognitive comparison)
Frequently asked questions
How is head & brain injury (tbi) compensation calculated in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, your weekly benefit is 67% of your average weekly wage, capped at $1,116. Permanent disability is calculated based on your impairment rating.
What is the average head & brain injury (tbi) settlement in Tennessee?
Tennessee workers with head & brain injury (tbi) typically settle between $7,000 and $60,000, depending on impairment rating, treatment costs, and lost wages.
How long do I have to file a workers' comp claim in Tennessee?
1 year from injury. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. Contact a workers' comp attorney as soon as possible.
Do I need a lawyer for a workers' comp claim in Tennessee?
You are not required to have an attorney, but representation significantly increases average settlement amounts. Most workers' comp attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless you win. Typical fees are 20% of settlement.
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual compensation depends on the specific facts of your case, your state's workers' compensation laws, and the outcome of any proceedings. Always consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney in your state.