can i be forced to drive fatigued

You state in your question that you were forced to drive while fatigued and you ask whether your employer can force you to do that, but you don't say how you got into this situation?   Were you suffering from a medical condition that led to fatigue?  Did you tell your employer about your medical condition?  Were you coming off of a double shift?  Did you stay up all night partying and come into work after not getting enough sleep? The simple answer to your question is that the employer cannot "force" you to behave unsafely.  They can threaten you, they can even fire you if you refuse, but they cannot force you.  If you are being placed in the position of choosing to disobey a direct order that you feel is unsafe, there are some things you should do: First, if at all possible, complain about the unsafe working conditions both verbally (in front of witnesses) and "in writing."  Deliver the complaint to your direct supervisor and HR.  Be specific about why you are complaing.  For example, "I have been asked to operate a school bus when my medical condition renders me fatigued.  I feel that driving under these conditions could pose  a risk to my safety, the safety of my passengers, and the safety of the public."   If they persist in asking you to perform unsafe duties, you can file an annonymous complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.  If you refuse to do the unsafe act and you are disciplined, then by taking the steps above, you will at least have some legal recourse.