Driving and Hypoglycemia
Some of the medicines used to treat diabetes (insulin,
sulfonylureas, repaglinide, and nateglinide) can cause hypoglycemia, which can affect refl exes and judgment. In
addition, long-term diabetes complications, especially vision problems and neuropathy, may interfere with
driving ability.
There have been a number of
research studies that have looked at the impact of diabetes on car accidents. Generally speaking, the impact
appears to be modest if it exists at all. It does seem that the risk for future car accidents is increased if
there has been a recent episode of severe hypoglycemia, hypoglycemic unawareness, or a history of past
crashes.
All the states have special
licensing rules. Many states do not allow drivers who are on insulin to drive a commercial vehicle.
Unfortunately, sometimes this means that some drivers are reluctant to go on insulin and have long-term poor
glucose control.
Recommendations for safe
driving if you have diabetes include the following:
• Check your
blood glucose immediately before driving.
• Keep a glucose
meter and fast-acting carbohydrates in the car.
• If you feel
that your glucose levels are low, pull over and check.
• Be extra
vigilant if you have complications, especially vision problems and diabetic neuropathy.
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