What is the purpose of referring a driver with psychological concerns to mental health services?

Referring a driver with psychological concerns to mental health services is primarily focused on assessing their fitness for commercial driving certification. This assessment is crucial because psychological factors can significantly impact a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and make sound judgments on the road. The Department of Transportation (DOT) emphasizes the importance of mental health in maintaining road safety, as conditions such as anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues may impair a driver's cognitive functions and decision-making abilities.

While enhancing a driver’s performance and providing immediate counseling are important considerations in some contexts, they do not specifically address the regulatory requirements related to commercial driving. Not all drivers need psychological evaluations; instead, the focus is on those who present psychological concerns that could compromise their ability to drive safely. Therefore, the primary goal of the referral is to ensure that the driver is fit for duty, thus safeguarding road safety and compliance with DOT regulations.