Getting a ticket is a big hassle. It can be costly and time-consuming, not to mention the perfect way to screw up your morning commute. But did you know that ignoring a traffic ticket can have a major effect on your ability to drive in the long run?
Getting a ticket is bad, but ignoring one is worse. Expensive fines and annoying court appearances might be a pain, but you needn’t go through them alone. Instead of ignoring that traffic ticket, talk to an attorney, and figure out how you can fight it today.
What Happens If You Ignore a Traffic Ticket?
If you fail to either pay your traffic ticket or plead not guilty to it in the allotted amount of time, you can expect the following things to happen:
- Your case will be transferred to court.
- The DMV will be alerted that you have not taken any action.
- Your driver’s license will be suspended.
- You will be forced to pay a $60 fee to the Clerk of the Court for reopening your case, on top of the cost of your additional ticket.
- The DMV will likely charge you an additional $175 for reinstating your license.
What If My Ticket Is for a Non-Motor Vehicle Infraction?
If you fail to pay or plead not guilty when dealing with a non-motor vehicle infraction, you may face additional legal consequences, such as:
- Your case being transferred to court.
- A warrant being issued for your arrest.
- Bond being set for your release.
- An additional charge of “Failure to Pay or Plead” being added to your case.
What Else Can Happen?
Should you decide to take your ticket to court, and you are found guilty, you may have points taken off your license. If you forfeit a bond during this proceeding, you may also lose points on your license. Your insurance rates may also go up if your provider looks at your driving record before issuing a new policy.
Why You Should Fight Your Ticket
If you get a traffic ticket, there’s no reason any of these negative outcomes should happen to you. There are many reasons you may have been ticketed unfairly, including faulty radar guns or officer bias. Even if you end up having to pay some of the amount, the right lawyer can help argue down fines, license points, and other penalties.
Have you or a loved one been ignoring a traffic ticket? Call the experienced attorneys of The Sills Law Firm at (860) 524-8118 or contact us online. Backed by 20+ years of serving clients across Connecticut, our experience with traffic court and criminal defense is proven.
