If a vehicle required to be inspected becomes damaged or deteriorated in such a manner that such vehicle has become unsafe for operation upon the public highways of this state, it is unlawful for the owner or operator thereof to cause such vehicle to be operated upon a public highway upon its return to service unless such owner or operator presents such vehicle for inspection of equipment within twenty-four hours after its return to service.
[ 1986 c 123 § 6; 1961 c 12 § 46.32.070. Prior: 1937 c 189 § 13; RRS § 6360-13.]