I have become concerned about this issue, and have contacted local police departments to go there and speak about driving with diabetes (specifically when hypoglycemic), the signs/symptoms/medical alert jewelry to look for, etc. I would suggest all diabetic adults on this forum to get in contact with their local police departments, inquire about the extent of their training on hypoglycemia, and volunteer your time to educate public servants so that they can better assist us in the event of a diabetic emergency on the road, especially since it so closely resembles being under the influence of drugs/alcohol. We have to do our part to help others help us. I think this is where the continuous blood glucose monitors would be invaluable, but they are pricey and most diabetics don't have them. Otherwise, I encourage everyone to 'know before you go'. If you check your blood sugar before you get into a car, you're going to avoid situations like these. Sure it requires time and effort, but we should remember that driving is a privilege, and driving with hypoglycemia endangers us and everyone else on the road. While I'm not saying driving with hypoglycemia is malicious intent, it is careless in the situations where it can be avoided by a simple finger stick before getting behind the wheel. While it is another burden, we all need to try to adopt good diabetes management practices, and this is surely one of them. Also, be sure to have your blood glucose monitor, insulin, glucose tabs, medical alert jewelry, or other information that identifies you as a diabetic (such as getting put on your driver's license that you are insulin dependent) in a place that is easily accessible to you or an officer during a traffic stop or hypoglycemic event.
