What does "driving while impaired" mean?

"Driving while impaired" specifically refers to operating a vehicle when your capacity to do so safely is diminished due to the influence of drugs or alcohol. This impairment can significantly affect judgment, coordination, reaction time, and overall driving ability, increasing the risk of accidents.

The understanding of impairment goes beyond merely being under the influence; it encompasses any situation where substance use has disrupted your normal cognitive and physical functions necessary for safe driving. This aligns with national standards regarding driving under the influence and reinforces the legal framework that aims to reduce traffic incidents related to substance abuse.

Other options, while related to driving, do not capture the specific legal and safety implications of impairment. For instance, driving with a suspended license does not inherently indicate impairment relating to substances, nor does being distracted by passengers. Additionally, driving under the speed limit does not address whether a driver is fit to drive, as one can be within legal speed limits while still being impaired.