A reminder has been issued to suffferers to follow the advice of Diabetes UK every time they get behind the wheel.

If a hyperglycaemic attack, caused by low blood sugar levels, occurs while in charge of a vehicle, the consequences could be fatal.

Acting Inspector Gary Hatton, of the Cleveland Police Road Policing Unit, said: "We have had several collisions recently in Cleveland involving drivers with diabetes.

"It's vital that drivers with diabetes follow the advice given by Diabetes UK for their own safety and for the safety of other road users."

Carrying some form of glucose, such as a sugary non-diet drink or glucose tablets, and not to drive for more than two hours without having a snack, were two precautions cited.

A spokesperson for Diabetes UK said: "We recommend that people with diabetes check their blood glucose levels before they get behind the wheel, and regularly during the journey to avoid having a hypoglycaemic episode."

The symptoms of hypoglycaemia may include hunger, sweating, shakiness, palpitations, faintness, dizziness, nausea or a headache.

If people feel an attack is imminent they should stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so. They should not start driving again until they have fully recovered.