Diabetic truck driver's hypoglycemic crash paralyzes Austrian motorway for hours

A 56-year-old Italian truck driver suffered a severe hypoglycemic episode while travelling on the A14 motorway near Altach. The incident led to a crash that disrupted traffic and caused damage to another vehicle. Authorities later confirmed the driver had a long-standing history of diabetes.

The crash occurred when the driver experienced a sudden drop in blood sugar, briefly losing consciousness. His truck and trailer veered out of control, striking the central guardrail multiple times before stopping in the overtaking lane. Flying debris from the collision also damaged a nearby passenger car.

Emergency services rushed the driver to Hohenems Regional Hospital for medical assessment. Recovery operations forced the closure of the left lanes in both directions, leading to heavy congestion on the motorway.

Austrian regulations require professional drivers with chronic conditions like diabetes to undergo regular health checks. The Sozialministerium and regional medical authorities enforce these rules, following EU guidelines. Specialised assessments by the Verkehrspsychologische Gutachterkommission (VPGK) ensure drivers meet fitness-to-drive standards.

The crash underscores the risks of unmanaged chronic conditions for professional drivers. Traffic delays lasted for hours as crews cleared the scene. Authorities continue to stress the need for strict medical monitoring in high-risk occupations.