How does alcohol affect reaction time while driving?

Alcohol is known to impair various cognitive and motor functions, which directly impacts a person's ability to react quickly when driving. It affects the brain's processes that control judgment, coordination, and reflexes, leading to slower reaction times. When a person consumes alcohol, even small amounts can alter their concentration and attention, making it more difficult to respond to changes in the driving environment, such as unexpected obstacles or sudden stops by other vehicles.

The other answers do not accurately reflect the impact of alcohol on reaction time. For example, suggesting that alcohol improves reaction time contradicts extensive research indicating that alcohol consumption leads to impairment. Similarly, stating that there is no significant change ignores the well-documented effects of alcohol on cognitive and motor skills. The claim that it only affects older drivers overlooks the fact that alcohol can impair individuals of all ages and driving experience, not just specific age groups.