Driving and diabetes: what practice nurses need to know

Special considerations are necessary for people with diabetes who drive. There are two principal concerns. Firstly, there is the risk of medication-induced hypoglycaemia that can precipitate a sudden crisis. Secondly, there is a concern over the impact of long term complications on ability to drive, such as visual or limb problems.

This article reviews the issue of hypoglycaemia in the context of driving, and diabetes complications affecting fitness to drive. It also covers how to advise people with diabetes who drive and, in particular, DVLA requirements for safe driving with diabetes.

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The problem of hypoglycaemia

The person who experiences hypoglycaemia induced by diabetes medication is at risk of road traffic accidents with associated morbidity and mortality for themselves and others.¹