What action should an officer take when a person refuses to sign a ticket after failing to stop at a sign?

When a person refuses to sign a ticket after failing to stop at a sign, the appropriate action for an officer is to arrest the individual and take them before a magistrate. This is because the refusal to sign signifies a denial of responsibility for the traffic violation. The signature on the ticket serves as an acknowledgment of the citation and an agreement to appear in court if required. When that acknowledgment is not given, the situation escalates, typically warranting an arrest.

In many jurisdictions, the refusal to sign may be considered a separate violation, leading to necessary legal action. This ensures that the individual cannot evade accountability for their actions on the road. By arresting the individual, the officer ensures that the legal process can continue and that the individual has the opportunity to contest the citation in court if they choose.

Other options, such as issuing a warning, letting the individual go, or calling for backup may not adequately address the violation and the refusal to sign, potentially leaving the officer with no record of compliance or accountability from the driver.