Why is it dangerous to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous primarily because it impairs cognitive functions and motor skills. When someone is affected by these substances, their ability to think clearly, process information, and react rapidly to changing conditions on the road is significantly compromised. This impairment can lead to slowed reaction times, a lack of coordination, and an inability to make sound judgments.

Additionally, cognitive functions encompass a range of mental abilities, including memory, attention, reasoning, and the ability to understand complex situations. When these functions are dulled or impaired, drivers may misjudge distances, overlook important cues like stop signs or traffic signals, and fail to respond appropriately to the behavior of other drivers or obstacles in the roadway.

Motor skills, which include physical actions such as steering, braking, and accelerating, are essential for safe driving. Alcohol and many drugs disrupt the brain's ability to control these actions, increasing the risk of accidents and endangering not only the impaired driver but also passengers and others on the road.