Final answer:
The motor carrier industry is highly visible and significant in the United States due to its role in transporting goods, its influence on transportation infrastructure, and its connection to the dependency on oil.
Step-by-step explanation:
The motor carrier industry is highly visible and significant in the United States for several reasons. Firstly, the motor carrier industry plays a crucial role in the transportation of goods, connecting manufacturers to retailers and consumers. It is responsible for moving raw materials to factories and distributing finished products across the country, supporting economic growth and trade.
Secondly, the motor carrier industry is closely tied to the development of the transportation infrastructure in the United States. For example, the construction of the federal interstate system in the 1950s, facilitated by the Federal Highway Act, greatly improved the ability to travel by automobile but also bypassed many small towns and businesses.
Lastly, the motor carrier industry's visibility and significance are also driven by the dependency on oil as the primary fuel source for transportation. The industry accounts for a significant portion of oil consumption, making it a key player in the global dependence on imported energy.