Diabetes is a fairly common but serious health condition that up to 10% of people in the United States have per the CDC. This condition occurs when the body quits producing enough insulin to control blood sugar levels after eating a meal high in carbs or sugar. Unregulated blood glucose can cause irreversible damage to the heart, circulatory system, kidneys, feet, and may even cause death.

But that’s not all – poorly controlled blood sugar levels also increase your risk of a DUI arrest. Keep reading to find out what you can do if you’re a diabetic and were pulled over by police who falsely arrested you for intoxicated driving.

Low Sugar Levels Can Manifest the Same Way As Being Intoxicated

Glucose reserves can drop in a diabetic, leaving them feeling weak, confused, and lethargic. If they are using a vehicle when this happens, it could end up resulting in a drunk driving arrest. Despite breathalyzer results that are negative for alcohol, a person might still be arrested if they fail one or more sobriety tests in the field.

If You Have Hyperglycemia, Your Breathalyzer Could Be Positive For Alcohol

Hypoglycemia is just one concern for diabetics who drive. Another is hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar. When sugar levels rise, the body produces alcohols that can trigger a breathalyzer. Additional symptoms of hyperglycemia that could be misconstrued for impairment include excessive urination and thirst, sweet-smelling breath, and being slow to respond.

Safety Precautions Drivers With Diabetes Can Take

Here’s what people who struggle with diabetes can do to lower the likelihood of a DWI arrest:

• Check your glucose before leaving the house.
• Make sure you have access to glucose and insulin when you are out of the house.
• Pull over if you think your glucose levels might be too low or too high.
• Monitor your glucose levels and administer medications as needed to control the reading until it stabilizes and you are able to drive again.
• If your vehicle is stopped by the police, let him know that you are diabetic.

When to Call a Criminal Defense Attorney

New York criminal defense attorney Scott Cerbin is available now to help you and your family after a devastating drunk driving charge. Call today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case details by dialing 718-596-1829. Our team of legal professionals can help you now.