Diabetic driving - precautions behind the wheel

Parents know that when their teen starts to drive, safety becomes an even more important focus than ever. However, drivers of all age who have diabetes have added burdens when it comes to remaining safe behind the wheel.

Driving with diabetes has become far more common in recent years due to a combination of unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles - especially among young people. In fact, medical professionals have largely stopped using the term "adult onset diabetes" for Type 2 diabetes in recent years because so many juveniles have been coming down with the condition.

People who have sudden blood sugar swings may be prone to passing out behind the wheel or becoming disoriented or unable to focus.

According to the American Diabetes Association, parents need to emphasize the importance to their diabetic teens of checking blood sugar every time they plan to drive. If blood sugar is low, the organization advises waiting for 15 minutes and checking again, adding that "it's never ok to drive" with low blood sugar.

Diabetic drivers of all ages are also reminded to carry some healthy and non-perishable snacks containing fast-acting sugars in their car should a problem arise. Also, diabetics are advised to carry a medical ID bracelet even when not driving.