How does alcohol affect your driving abilities?

Alcohol significantly impairs judgment and reduces reaction time, which are critical components of safe driving. When a person consumes alcohol, it depresses the central nervous system, leading to slower cognitive processing and reduced motor skills. This impairment affects a driver’s ability to make quick decisions, assess situations accurately, and respond to hazards on the road. For instance, a driver under the influence may not recognize a stop sign in time or might take longer to react to sudden changes in traffic. The cumulative effect of these impairments increases the risk of accidents, making it crucial to understand the dangers associated with drinking and driving.