Even the smallest traffic offenses can have dire consequences if you ignore them. For example, if you do not pay a parking ticket, it can result in up to triple the original fine, the towing of your car or even a license suspension. If you are facing charges for a traffic offense, we can help.
Legal system concept gavel and law books in courthouse
At Goldberg & Allen, LLP, we have handled a wide range of cases involving traffic violations, false arrest, DUI and other types of charges. The legal system can be unpredictable, and even if your offenses do not seem that serious, you could benefit from speaking to a criminal attorney in New York City. Call us today at 212-766-3366 to arrange an initial consultation, and read on for more information about the consequences of ignoring traffic tickets.
It Starts with a Fine
A traffic ticket is essentially a document stating that you have violated one or more of the city’s traffic ordinances and therefore must pay a specific amount in fines to the local government. According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, the DMV Traffic Violations Bureau handles tickets for non-criminal moving violations so the courts can address more serious criminal offenses like driving while intoxicated. If you receive a ticket for a traffic violation, it is critical that you act promptly by following the instructions on the ticket regarding the plea you wish to make.
Bench Warrants
If you do not pay your traffic ticket within the allotted time period, the local court will likely issue a notice stating that you must appear in court to pay the fines you owe. If you ignore this notice and do not appear in court, it may then issue a bench warrant for your arrest. That means if police spot you driving, they will arrest you.
Car Booting or Towing
In most cases, officers will resort to towing or booting your car before they arrest you for unpaid parking tickets. It is important to keep in mind that if police tow and impound your car, they are likely to search it without a warrant, which could result in further charges.
License Suspension or Revocation
If you ignore traffic or parking tickets for long enough, the state may suspend your license. This is true even when it comes to out-of-state tickets. Driving with a suspended license is another traffic violation entirely, and it could eventually lead to the courts revoking your license.
If the court revokes your license, you could lose the privilege to drive for several years before the law permits you to apply to reinstate it. Also, it is important to keep in mind that insurance companies determine your premiums based on your driving record, and ignoring tickets could be considerably more costly for you in the long-run than simply paying the fines as soon as possible.
If you are facing charges for a traffic crime and want to speak with a criminal lawyer in New York City, we can help. Jay K. Goldberg and Gerald Allen have both reached the level of First Deputy Bureau Chief in Kings County, so their clients know they are in good hands. Call us today at 212-766-3366 to arrange a free case review.
