Toyota Repair: brake light problems, taillight, reverse

Question
I have a '93 Corolla, and I had to replace my left rear light panel, or bundle of lights in the back, however you want to put it. Well when my dad changed it out my reverse lights stay on when I'm driving. All the other light functions work properly, but while driving my reverse lights stay on. Ok so my dad messed with the lights and now just the brake light stays on in the rear left side, even when I'm not pushing the brake. What is the problem and how can we fix it ourselves without having to go to the dealer and be charged more than we can afford???

Answer
Poor dad!
I'm guessing that he did one of several things:
1) He used the wrong bulbs.  Alot of them look alike but may have different internals or prongs on the base.  The # of the bulb is usually stamped on the side of the base.  Check to see if they match whet the owners manual says.
2) He could of put them back in the wrong place.  Try this in the daylight (you will need an assistant, other than your dad).  With the parking brake set, start the car, allow it to idle, and shift it into reverse (Do NOT put your foot on the brake!!!).  Have your assistant tell you if any of the "non reverse" lights illuminate.  Try it a couple of times, going from Park to Reverse.  If one of the "non reverse" lights light up - dear ol' dad misinstalled them.
3) A combination of the above two.

Be gentle with him, he is your dad.

Hope this helps.

Vince