One of the most frequent questions we are asked is from panic-stricken clients who call us with fear dripping from their voices. They ask, “What happens if I miss the deadline to pay a ticket?” Well, we're happy to say the world doesn’t end. However, missing a deadline is not good and will eventually result in negative consequences. But all is not lost.
Depending on how badly you missed your deadline, you can still fight the ticket. It just may cost a little more.
All the options you had initially:
1. Pay the ticket and take the points. 2. Pay the ticket and go to traffic school, or 3. Fight the ticket -- may still available to you depending on the county. Most Florida counties will still work with you up to 180 days after the date of incident.
Better than that, you still have time to hire a traffic ticket attorney to fight on your behalf. Who, if he or she does their job right, can usually get the best possible outcome. No Fines, No Points, and No Court Costs.
Remember, traffic citations are big business in Florida. The state wants you to pay the traffic ticket without making a fuss. They’re happy taking your money within 30 days or, even better, the higher amount for a late payment.
Just because the “deadline” for paying a ticket has passed, don’t let the higher amount scare you into paying and running without thinking through your options.
What you absolutely have to remember if you haven’t paid the ticket by the due date is that you MUST TAKE ACTION IMMEDIATELY. The worst thing to do is continue ignoring it. If you do, a simple speeding traffic ticket turns into a major headache. Here’s how:
By doing nothing, the state will eventually suspend your driver's license. That could actually result in your getting arrested. If you are stopped by police for any reason and they find that you have a suspended license you can be thrown in jail.
The key is not to let your traffic ticket get to that point. The good news is that just because you are “late,” it doesn’t mean you have to pay or face going to jail.
To recap, the best thing to do is take action by contacting an attorney who specializes in traffic tickets and get a handle on the situation.
Unger and Kowitt will be glad to talk and walk you through your options. Call us at 866-374-8355.
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