At a BAC of .12%, which of the following cognitive abilities is mainly affected?

At a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .12%, the cognitive abilities that are primarily affected include inhibitions and judgment. At this level of intoxication, individuals experience a significant impairment in their ability to make sound decisions and assess risks effectively. This can lead to overconfidence in abilities and a reduced awareness of consequences, making people more likely to engage in risky behaviors.

While coordination and movement, along with balance and reaction time, are indeed affected at this BAC level, the hallmark cognitive impairment at .12% centers more specifically around decision-making and self-regulation. This indicates that the correct answer focuses on the mental processes directly influenced by alcohol rather than purely physical coordination or motor skills.