As the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) increases, what is affected?

As the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) increases, judgment and self-control are significantly affected. This impairment occurs because alcohol depresses the central nervous system, which directly influences cognitive functions. When judgment is compromised, an individual may make poor decisions regarding their actions, particularly in complex situations such as driving or operating heavy machinery. This loss of self-control can lead to increased risk-taking behaviors or failure to recognize dangerous circumstances.

While physical strength and endurance, vision and hearing abilities, and reaction time and speed can also be impacted by alcohol consumption, the most critical factor in this context is the impairment of judgment and self-control. Problems in these areas typically pave the way for more significant consequences, such as accidents or injuries, due to poor decision-making. Thus, understanding the effects of alcohol on judgment and self-control is essential for safe operation in various contexts, particularly for those holding a Commercial Driver's License.