Driving a vehicle is a complex skill that requires good visual-spatial orientation, the ability to process information quickly, vigilance, and making the right decision. The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus itself is not a contraindication to recreational driving. Restrictions may arise in the development of late complications: retinopathy, leading to decreased or lost vision; peripheral polyneuropathy - lesion of the nerve fibers of the legs with loss of sensitivity in the development of diabetic foot syndrome.

Is it Possible to Drive a Truck If You Have Diabetes?

A diabetic may obtain a license to drive a private car, provided that there are no serious complications, providing the medical commission with a certificate from an endocrinologist about the absence of contraindications.

The main thing is to consult with your endocrinologist and undergo a detailed examination to identify complications that may prevent the full driving of the car.

Commercial

Truckers Face Diabetes Health Risks

The risk of developing diabetes is 50% higher among truckers than in the general population. This is probably because many truck drivers put in much overtime and spend most of their on-duty time seated. As they cannot predict when they will have access to a grocery store or even a microwave, it may also be challenging for truckers to eat healthily while on the road. Due to this uncertainty, many truck drivers rely on meals from truck stops or fast food chains.

Controlling their symptoms must be a top priority for truck drivers with diabetes. Truck drivers will instantly be disqualified from acquiring medical certificates if they have certain diabetes-related health concerns. Peripheral neuropathy is one of these conditions, which results in a lack of sensation in the hands or feet and clearly poses a hazard to the truck driver and any other vehicles on the road.

What to Be Wary of?

The main potentially dangerous problem a driver with diabetes can face is hypoglycemia (a drop in blood glucose levels below normal). This causes dizziness, chills, heart palpitations, anxiety, and decreased concentration and attention. In the worst case, loss of consciousness may occur. According to statistics, drivers with diabetes have 30% more traffic accidents, mainly due to hypoglycemia. In order to minimize this possibility, it is necessary to follow a number of rules.

To better understand if drivers with diabetes can pass the DOT physical test, we took this video from: Easy DOT Physicals Channel

Basic Rules For Safer Driving

• In the car's cabin should always be a hand glucose meter and test strips, food, and drinks that will quickly relieve the attack of hypoglycemia (juice, sugar (refined sugar), pills, or glucose gel with glucose);
• Keep easily digestible carbohydrates (sugar, juice, or sweet drink) as close to you as possible - on the center console or the front passenger seat. Keep them out of the glove compartment or trunk;
• Get your medicines ready in advance. Avoid dvla hypoglycemia and driving by not being taken off guard in the middle of nowhere, discovering you didn't have enough insulin or need a medication refill;
• Your companions should know where to find easily digestible carbohydrates in the car. Be sure to measure your blood glucose levels before each trip. If your glycemia is low (below 5.5-6 mmol/l), eat any product with "fast" carbohydrates approved by your doctor. Carry a small "emergency" supply, such as cookies or bread;
• Do not start driving if you feel the precursors of hypoglycemia or have just managed it;
• Don't take to the track until your glucose is back to normal;
• During the trip, follow your usual eating and insulin administration regimen, not skipping your regular meals;
• Avoid overexertion. After every 1.5-2 hours of travel, making stops, walking a little, having a snack, and drinking is advisable;