New tech fights driver fatigue—a danger worse than alcohol on the road
Driver fatigue remains a serious risk on the roads, particularly during long journeys or in poor weather. Mercedes-Benz Trucks has highlighted the dangers, pointing to warning signs such as frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, and difficulty staying in lane. The company’s new Attention Assist 2 system, launching in February 2026, will use infrared cameras to detect these early signals and alert drivers before accidents occur.
Fatigue impairs driving as severely as alcohol. After 17 hours without sleep, reaction times and decision-making match those of someone with a blood alcohol level of 0.5 per mille. By 24 hours, the effect jumps to nearly 1.0 per mille, making drivers dangerously slow to respond.
The risks grow in winter, when short days and long trips increase tiredness. Monotonous roads and early morning darkness also make it harder to stay alert. When drivers drink—even for seconds—they can drift into oncoming traffic or leave the road entirely. At 80 km/h, a microsleep lasting just a few seconds means travelling over 22 metres without control.
Warning signs include sudden chills, blurred vision, restlessness, and the feeling that the road is narrowing. If these appear, drivers should pull over immediately. A short nap combined with caffeine works best, as the stimulant takes about 30 minutes to take effect. Physical activity or switching drivers can also help restore alertness.
Fatigue-related accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to high-speed loss of control. Recognising early signs and acting quickly can prevent crashes. Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ new system aims to reduce these risks by monitoring drivers and issuing timely warnings.
