Unique Electronic Identification and Wireless Roadside Inspections – The Impact on Motor Carriers

Unique Electronic Identification (UID) and wireless roadside inspections (WRI) commercial motor vehicles have been discussed for over a decade. Many confuse and conflate the two concepts. Proponents say that UID and WRI will wirelessly identify, transmit, and assess compliance of commercial motor vehicles and drivers at highway speed by conveying real-time data to federal and state regulators. WRI is envisioned as “a system of systems,” both public and private, for the collection, capture, and assessment of significant quantities of sensitive information on carriers, drivers, and equipment. What seems to be left out of the discussion on UID and WRI are the concerns and benefits to motor carriers.