What key skills are affected by impairment when operating a vehicle?

Impairment significantly affects critical driving skills such as speed control and judgment, which are essential for safe vehicle operation. When an individual is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their ability to accurately assess their speed, react to changes in traffic conditions, and make timely decisions can be severely compromised. For instance, impaired judgment can lead to miscalculating stopping distances or failing to recognize hazards on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. This loss of control over fundamental driving tasks is central to understanding the dangers of driving under the influence, as it encompasses the cognitive and motor skills necessary for safe driving. Other skills listed, while important, do not play as direct a role in the immediate tasks required for safe vehicle operation.