Which aspect of driving is most affected by intoxication?

Intoxication significantly impairs judgment and reasoning, which are critical cognitive functions necessary for safe driving. When a person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their ability to evaluate situations accurately diminishes, leading to poor decision-making. This includes errors in assessing speed, distance, and the actions of other drivers, as well as an increased likelihood of risk-taking behaviors, such as speeding or ignoring traffic signals.

While awareness of surroundings, technical driving skills, and vehicle control can also be affected by intoxication, judgment and reasoning are foundational to making safe driving decisions. A compromised judgment can result in dangerous choices regardless of the driver's technical proficiency or control of the vehicle, making this aspect the most impacted by intoxication.