Are people with insulin-requiring diabetes a potential liability to the public welfare while driving? In this issue, the data presented by Cox et al. (1) on driving impairment during progressive hypoglycemia might be interpreted to affirm this point of view. We submit that this would be a grievous error that could have a significant negative impact on millions of people with diabetes worldwide. The potential impact of hypoglycemia on cognitive function and motor skills in people with diabetes is not disputed. Moreover, it is clear that severe hypoglycemia while driving may contribute to traffic accidents. As a result, agencies that regulate the issue of driver’s licenses have historically restricted people with diabetes from operating commercial transportation vehicles, and many states require proof of medical fitness to drive before a standard driving license is issued. (Author/publisher)
Abstract