It might seem odd to consider that a 1959 Supreme Court ruling about state regulations on truck mud flaps could provide insight into the use of artificial intelligence in commercial real estate. However, that is where things stand.

The Bibb v. Navajo Freight Lines involved a trucking company and the state of Illinois. Trucks often sport large panels, called mud flaps, behind their wheels to help keep rocks from getting thrown back at traffic. At the time, there was another type of device that the state favored. Drivers would have to pull over, take off the flaps, and put on the other type of device to avoid getting a ticket.

Ultimately, the Court agreed with the plaintiffs because regulation of interstate commerce is a power reserved for the federal government. Illinois had overstepped its authority and illustrated how state regulations can come into conflict.