Driver Fatigue Risk Estimator
Assess your alertness level and get personalized safety recommendations before driving
😴 Sleep Information
🚛 Work Hours Today
⚠️ Current Symptoms
Select any symptoms you're currently experiencing:
☕ Caffeine Consumption
Note: Caffeine can temporarily mask fatigue but doesn't eliminate it. It's not a substitute for proper rest.
💡 Recommendations
About Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of commercial vehicle accidents. Studies show that driving after being awake for 18 hours produces impairment equivalent to a blood alcohol content of 0.05%, and after 24 hours, it's equivalent to 0.10%.
This calculator uses multiple factors including sleep quantity and quality, duty hours, circadian rhythms, and physical symptoms to assess your current fatigue risk level.
Key Risk Factors:
- Less than 6 hours of sleep in 24 hours
- Poor sleep quality or sleep disorders
- Extended duty hours (12+ hours)
- Driving during circadian lows (2-6 AM, 2-4 PM)
- Multiple consecutive work days without rest
- Physical fatigue symptoms
Fatigue Management Tips
Prioritize Quality Sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep in a dark, quiet environment before shifts.
Plan Your Schedule
Avoid driving during natural low-alertness periods (2-6 AM and 2-4 PM) when possible.
Use Breaks Wisely
Take 15-30 minute breaks every 2-3 hours. A short nap (15-20 min) can boost alertness.
Recognize Warning Signs
Yawning, heavy eyelids, lane drifting, and missing signs are clear danger signals.
Medical Considerations
If you have a sleep disorder, work with a physician to manage it properly.
Communicate
Never hesitate to inform dispatch if you're too fatigued to drive safely.
Important Disclaimer
This fatigue risk estimator is an educational tool and should not be used as the sole determinant of fitness to drive. It does not replace professional medical advice, proper training, or compliance with Hours of Service regulations. Always follow your company's safety policies and federal/provincial regulations. If you feel fatigued, do not drive regardless of your score. Your safety and the safety of others is paramount.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this fatigue calculator? ▼
This calculator is based on scientific research about fatigue factors, but it's a general assessment tool. Individual responses to fatigue vary, so use it as a guideline alongside your own judgment and regulatory requirements.
What should I do if my score is high? ▼
If your fatigue score is 50 or above, strongly consider stopping to rest. A score of 70 or higher indicates critical risk—you should stop driving immediately and rest for at least 2 hours or sleep before continuing.
Does caffeine really help with fatigue? ▼
Caffeine can temporarily increase alertness for 30-60 minutes, but it only masks fatigue symptoms—it doesn't eliminate the underlying sleep debt. It's not a substitute for proper rest.
How much sleep do commercial drivers really need? ▼
Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per 24-hour period. Commercial drivers may need more due to the physical and mental demands of the job. Consistent sleep schedules are also important.
What are the most dangerous times to drive? ▼
Your body's circadian rhythm naturally dips between 2-6 AM and 2-4 PM. Crash risk is significantly higher during these times, especially if you're already fatigued.
Is my data stored or shared? ▼
No. This calculator runs entirely in your browser. Your responses are not stored, transmitted, or shared with anyone. Each time you load the page, you start fresh.