What should a driver do if they discover a malfunctioning turn signal during inspection?

When a driver discovers a malfunctioning turn signal during inspection, the correct course of action is to report and fix the issue before operating the vehicle. This is essential for several reasons.

Firstly, turn signals are a critical safety feature that informs other drivers of a vehicle’s intent to turn or change lanes. A malfunctioning signal can lead to confusion and potential accidents on the road. Secondly, operating a vehicle without functioning turn signals may violate traffic laws and could result in legal penalties, as vehicles must meet specific safety criteria before being driven.

Ensuring that all lights and signals are operational is part of the pre-trip inspection process outlined by federal and state regulations. Proper procedure involves addressing any identified issues—this maintains not only the safety of the driver and passengers but also that of others on the road. Therefore, fixing the issue prior to driving is the responsible action that influences overall road safety.