Which of the following is a common sign of intoxication?

Loss of balance is a well-recognized common sign of intoxication. When a person consumes alcohol or other substances, their coordination and motor skills are impaired, which often leads to difficulty in maintaining balance. This is due to the effects of the intoxicating substances on the central nervous system, which can disrupt normal physical functions and motor control.

In contrast, improved speech clarity would typically indicate that a person is not intoxicated, as alcohol often slurs speech and makes communication more difficult. Increased energy is misleading, as while some substances may momentarily make a person feel more energetic, intoxication usually results in a decrease in overall functionality and control. Better decision-making is also not associated with intoxication; in fact, intoxicated individuals often make poorer decisions, as their judgment is compromised. Thus, loss of balance stands out as a definitive sign of intoxication that reflects the negative physical and cognitive effects of substance use.