What does "failing to maintain control of a vehicle" mean in the CR-3 Traffic Code?

The term "failing to maintain control of a vehicle" refers specifically to the ability of the driver to effectively manage the steering and handling of the vehicle. This encompasses scenarios where a driver loses control, leading to actions that can be hazardous, such as swerving, veering off the road, or other reckless behaviors. When a driver loses steering control, it can result in dangerous maneuvers that pose risks not only to themselves but to other road users as well, highlighting the importance of maintaining control for safe driving.

Other choices do not accurately represent the concept of maintaining control. Driving without a valid license pertains to the legality of the driver rather than their control over the vehicle. Driving slower than the speed limit does not inherently indicate a loss of control, as there can be safe reasons for doing so. Lastly, switching lanes without signaling relates to proper communication with other drivers, which is important for safety but is not a direct indication of losing control of the vehicle. Each of these alternatives addresses distinct aspects of driving behavior rather than the core concept of maintaining control.