Which of the following statements about drinking and driving is true?

The statement that drinking increases the risk of crashes is true. Alcohol consumption impairs various essential driving skills, such as judgment, coordination, and reaction time. This impairment can result in the inability to respond effectively to sudden changes on the road, leading to a higher likelihood of being involved in accidents. Even small amounts of alcohol can negatively affect a driver's capabilities, making it a significant risk factor for all drivers, not just inexperienced ones.

The other options fail to recognize the serious implications of drinking and driving. For instance, the idea that alcohol improves driving skills is inherently false, as it detracts from a driver’s abilities. Similarly, the notion that it has no effect on reaction times contradicts extensive research demonstrating that alcohol slows reaction time significantly. Lastly, suggesting that alcohol only affects inexperienced drivers ignores the fact that even seasoned drivers can be impaired by alcohol consumption, regardless of their driving experience.