Werner Enterprises developed the automated logs over the past three years, using data from its Qualcomm vehicle tracking system to record truck movements and driver activities. The company worked closely with FHWA officials and shared basic elements of the system with other trucking operations. Government officials expressed strong support for the system. According to George Reagle, associate administrator of FHWA's Office of Motor Carriers, four or five companies have expressed interest in the program. In an effort to make the technology more affordable to smaller carriers, Mr. Reagle said, federal officials are exploring the idea of working with state trucking associations to form consortiums that could reduce cost of the communication equipment.
Many carriers are nonetheless leery of getting involved in the project.
The problem is that you can't use modern-day technology to enforce regulations fairly until you bring the regulations into the present day. They are based on an 18-hour day and require that drivers rest for eight hours after driving ten. Studies show that following them actually increases the chances a driver will suffer from fatigue. The rules must be changed to take into account that human beings function best on a 24-hour day before using satellite technology to enforce them will do anyone any good. American Trucking Associations Chairman Edward R. Trout applauded the agreement to allow Werner to switch to paperless driver logs, but he also cautioned against the use of electronic data as an enforcement tool.