Is it legal to drive with one fourth of a vehicle's leaf springs broken or missing?

Driving with one fourth of a vehicle's leaf springs broken or missing is illegal because the suspension system plays a critical role in maintaining vehicle stability, control, and safety. Leaf springs support the weight of the vehicle and help absorb shocks from the road. When one or more leaf springs are compromised, it can lead to poor handling, increased stopping distances, and a higher risk of losing control, especially when navigating turns or sudden stops.

Maintaining the integrity of the suspension is crucial for ensuring that the vehicle can effectively support its load and operate safely on all types of roads. Therefore, it is imperative to have a complete and functioning suspension system in order to meet legal safety requirements for operating a vehicle on public roads. This emphasis on safety and structural integrity underpins the regulations surrounding vehicle maintenance and legality for operation.