Final answer:
The USDOT number functions as a unique identifier used to collect and monitor a company's safety information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The USDOT number functions as a unique identifier used to collect and monitor a company's safety information. The USDOT number is assigned by the U.S. Department of Transportation and is required for commercial vehicles that weigh over a certain threshold or carry certain types of cargo.
For example, if a company operates a fleet of trucks, each truck would have its own USDOT number. This number allows authorities to track and monitor the safety performance and compliance of the company's vehicles.