Motor vehicle accidents during episodes of hypoglycaemia--case reports and lessons to be learnt.

Background: Hypoglycaemia is a common adverse effect of insulin treatment in individuals with diabetes, potentially leading to cognitive impairment, altered levels of consciousness and delayed reactions. If this happens while driving a motor vehicle, a disastrous accident may ensue.

Objective: This article describes the clinical scenarios of five men with type 1 diabetes who were involved in motor vehicle accidents due to severe hypoglycaemia and discusses the potential risk factors for hypoglycaemia.

Discussion: Reference is made to the specific management guidelines set out by the Australian Driver Licensing Authorities for individuals with diabetes. Sometimes, important ethical decisions can be difficult when managing diabetic individuals who fail to comply with therapy or who suffer hypoglycaemia related events and continue to drive a motor vehicle.