Can you drive at night after drinking liquor at noon?
4 Answers
You cannot drive at night after drinking liquor at noon because alcohol is absorbed very slowly by the human body. Below is relevant information about drunk driving: 1. Drunk driving: Driving a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol results in a fine of 1,000–2,000 yuan, 12 penalty points, and a 6-month suspension of the driver's license. Driving a commercial motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol results in a fine of 5,000 yuan, 12 penalty points, detention for up to 15 days, and a 5-year ban from obtaining a driver's license. 2. Drunk driving (with higher blood alcohol content): Driving a motor vehicle while heavily intoxicated leads to revocation of the driver's license, a 5-year ban from obtaining a new license, possible criminal detention, and a fine. Driving a commercial motor vehicle while heavily intoxicated results in revocation of the driver's license, a 10-year ban from obtaining a new license, a lifetime ban from driving commercial vehicles, possible criminal detention, and a fine.
I'm the type who takes safe driving very seriously, especially when it comes to alcohol. The baijiu consumed at noon typically has a high alcohol content, and the metabolism of alcohol in the human body takes time. Some people might metabolize it in just a few hours, but most may need over 12 hours. Residual baijiu can impair reaction speed and judgment. Driving at night is even riskier due to poor road conditions and insufficient lighting. Never take the risk—either use a breathalyzer to check or simply wait until the next morning. You can download a ride-hailing app to book a car or ask a friend for a ride. Developing such habits can save lives and shows responsibility to your family. Personally, in such situations, I choose to stay overnight—safety comes first, nothing is more important. Don’t risk major consequences for minor gains; you’ll regret drunk driving accidents when it’s too late.
From a legal perspective, this matter must be handled with caution. Drunk driving carries severe penalties, and it's illegal if the blood alcohol concentration exceeds 20mg/100ml. White liquor has high alcohol content, so if you drank a significant amount at noon, it's highly likely you'll exceed the limit when driving in the evening. I often see people being fined thousands, losing all their points, or even having their license revoked and facing jail time after being caught. Therefore, if you drank at noon, don't count on driving in the evening—ensure your BAC is zero. It's best to arrange for a designated driver or use public transportation. Don't take chances; the law is unforgiving, and one mistake can ruin your life. Social supervision is also becoming stricter, with more nighttime checkpoints. For your safety and others', remember the iron rule: don't drink and drive.
Experience tells me this is unreliable. A friend of mine drank baijiu at noon and drove in the evening, feeling dizzy and almost crashing. I've tried it a few times myself—felt sober, but the breathalyzer showed I was over the limit. Alcohol metabolism varies from person to person; younger people with larger body weights might process it faster, but high-proof baijiu lingers longer. It's better to wait. To be safe, wait 12 hours after drinking a bottle before driving, or simply take a taxi home. Saving money isn't worth risking your life. Once you develop good habits, it's best to book accommodation directly for drinking gatherings—peace of mind and safety guaranteed.