If a traffic sign is not functioning, what should a driver do?

When a traffic sign is not functioning, treating it as an all-way stop is a prudent course of action. This approach prioritizes safety and ensures that all drivers on the road are given an equal opportunity to navigate the intersection. By stopping and then proceeding only when it is safe, drivers can help prevent accidents that may arise from confusion or uncertainty at an unregulated intersection.

This method aligns with the general principles of defensive driving, where caution and communication among drivers are essential. By treating the intersection as an all-way stop, it reduces the potential for miscommunication between vehicles and helps maintain orderly traffic flow.

The other responses suggest actions that do not prioritize safety in the same way. For example, proceeding without stopping could lead to collisions, especially if other drivers are unsure about the right of way. Following nearby speed limit signs does not address the immediate issue of navigating an uncontrolled intersection, and calling the authorities may be a good step after addressing the immediate need for safety, but it does not solve the problem of driving through the intersection. Thus, treating the non-functioning sign as an all-way stop ensures that all drivers can make informed decisions based on mutual regard for safety.