Q My husband has diabetes. Will he ever be able to drive again?

AThe law says anyone who takes certain tablets for diabetes or uses insulin injections to control their blood sugar must notify the DVLA and consent to a report from their doctor, to see whether they can continue to drive. This is because there’s a risk of unexpected hypoglycaemia – a sudden fall in blood sugar level that leads to irritability, erratic behaviour, drowsiness, confusion or unconsciousness. Risks are higher with insulin, but this can also occur with some diabetes tablets, and the rules are stricter for public service vehicle and HGV drivers. Diabetes can also affect the eyes, so annual eye tests are compulsory.

The risks are lower if diabetes is well controlled. Insulin users must also monitor their blood sugars regularly, using a meter that keeps a record, and drivers must know when to do extra checks and take preventive action, and must stop driving if they have a severe daytime hypoglycaemic attack. But the law changed in January, and drivers can reapply for their licence after three months instead of two years, provided their condition has stabilised and their doctor agrees.