Why is driving under the influence of substances considered dangerous?

Driving under the influence of substances is considered dangerous primarily because it significantly impairs judgment and reaction times. When individuals consume alcohol or drugs, their cognitive functions and motor skills are adversely affected. This impairment can lead to poor decision-making, including an inability to assess risks accurately and delayed reactions to unexpected situations on the road. For example, a driver under the influence may not react quickly enough to a pedestrian crossing or may misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic, dramatically increasing the risk of accidents.

Impact on judgment means that impaired drivers might take unnecessary risks, such as speeding or following too closely. This combination of slower reaction times and compromised decision-making skills poses a severe threat not only to the impaired driver but also to passengers, other road users, and the general public. Convincingly, the dangers of driving under the influence extend beyond legal consequences; they can result in tragic outcomes, including serious injury or loss of life.