| GOS | Functional status | Interpretation |
| 1 | Death | Severe injury or death without recovery of consciousness |
| 2 | Persistent vegetative state | Severe damage with prolonged state of unresponsiveness and a lack of higher mental functions |
| 3 | Severe disability | Severe injury with permanent need for help with daily living |
| 4 | Moderate disability | No need for assistance in everyday life, employment is possible but may require special equipment |
| 5 | Low disability | Light damage with minor neurological and psychological deficits |