Diabetic Drivers Should Take Extra Precautions

7/23/2010

Drivers of all ages who suffer from diabetes have extra responsibilities when it comes to protecting themselves and others while driving.

With that in mind, the American Diabetes Association is advising parents of diabetic teens to emphasize some basic safety precautions as the teen driver prepares to get their driver's license. Adult drivers with diabetes can also lower their chances of being in an accident and facing injury or higher auto insurance rates by following these tips.

According to the organization, drivers with diabetes should check their blood sugar every time they get into the car. If blood sugar is low, diabetics are advised to wait 15 minutes and re-check, and to avoid driving until it comes back into a normal range.

A person having a diabetic episode behind the wheel can display impairment and symptoms that to some observers may be comparable to being drunk. Diabetics can experience a wide range of adverse symptoms with little notice, including vision issues and dizziness.

To further guard against a diabetic incident behind the wheel, it's also important to carry non-perishable snacks with fast-acting sugars in the car. Another suggested item to drive with is a medical ID bracelet.

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