Getting a traffic ticket is so common that one out of every five people has received at least one. Speeding, running red lights, failing to yield – these are just some of the everyday actions that can land you a ticket.
The amount you owe can vary depending on the violation, but it’s not uncommon for fines to range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand. Ignoring your ticket won’t make it go away. It can lead to even bigger problems, like late fees, suspended licenses, and even warrants for your arrest.
If you cannot afford to pay, don’t fret. There are several ways to handle the situation. You can discuss your case with a traffic ticket lawyer to decide what the best course of action is.
What to Do if You Can’t Pay Your Traffic Ticket Fines
Here are a few options you can consider if you are unable to pay traffic ticket fines:
Ask for a Lesser Fee
The statute sets the amount you’re eligible to pay for violating a traffic rule. However, this amount is not set in stone. The traffic court judge had the final say on what the actual amount would be.
You can try to persuade the judge, showing them proof of your inability to pay the initial fee.
If you’re lucky, you might be dealing with a liberal judge who wouldn’t mind easing your burden. Although, if you’re a repeat offender, even the most lenient judge would get tired of granting you reductions.
Opt to Perform Community Service Instead
If you cannot pay in cash, you should opt to pay in kind. Doing community service is a way of paying the debt that you owe the state. You have the right to request community service, however, the judge retains the right to grant or deny your request.
Ask for a Payment Plan
Many jurisdictions allow defaulters to pay traffic ticket fines in installments. You’ll sign a document and choose a payment plan that is either weekly, biweekly, or monthly.
There is usually no interest attached to the overall amount. Defaulting on this plan will attract extra fines, and if payment has defaulted continuously, you’ll most likely do time.
Attend Traffic School
This option can be a win-win situation. Many jurisdictions offer traffic schools that allow you to complete a course in exchange for reduced fines or having the ticket dismissed altogether.
In these schools, you’ll learn about traffic laws and safe driving practices, which’ll help make that visit to the traffic court the last one. The skills you learn in this school can also be lifesaving and beneficial to you in the long run.
Take Your Chances in Court
If you’ve been charged an outrageous fee, you should consider taking your chances in court. If you battle it out and win, you’ll be free of the fines. If you lose, you could still consider any of the options discussed in this article.
Declare Bankruptcy
This should be your final resolution if all other options do not serve your situation. You should know that traffic tickets aren’t typically considered debts, meaning they aren’t tied to any specific collateral.
However, in very specific circumstances, if the traffic ticket is part of a larger financial struggle and you’re pursuing Chapter 7 bankruptcy (liquidation of assets), there’s a chance the court might consider discharging the ticket.
The downside of this is that bankruptcy can have significant long-term consequences on your credit score and financial standing. Before you take this brazen step, be sure to consult a competent attorney to help you navigate the situation.
Conclusion
No matter what option you decide to go with, your best shot at success is consulting a competent traffic ticket lawyer. They can advise you on the best course of action based on the specifics of your situation and the laws in your jurisdiction. They can represent you and ensure that the eventual outcome favors you on all fronts.