Commercial Driving Ban on Diabetics Is Eased

Diabetics who have been barred from driving trucks or buses across state lines will be allowed to operate the vehicles if they meet stringent conditions, the federal government announced Wednesday.

The Federal Highway Administration said insulin-using diabetics who qualify will be given waivers to drive the vehicles in interstate commerce for three years while the agency seeks to develop a permanent rule.

The waiver period will let the highway administration compare the driving performance of the diabetics with other drivers.

Federal Highway Administrator Rodney E. Slater said that the action is in keeping with the new Americans With Disabilities Act, which is aimed at assuring work for people with handicaps.

To qualify for the waiver, diabetics must have three years of experience operating commercial vehicles and have good driving records. They also must have approval from an endocrinologist who attests to their ability to drive safely. Drivers also must submit logs on their blood glucose levels.