Navigating Traffic Ticket Fines and Collections: What You Need to Know

Dealing with a traffic ticket that has been sent to collections can be a headache. If a court clerk has informed you that you either have to pay the collections agency or schedule a hearing with a judge to possibly reduce the fine, this article will help you understand the process and your options.

Understanding the Collection Process

When you fail to pay a traffic ticket, the court will typically issue a notice and set a date for a first hearing. Ignoring this first hearing can result in the fine going to a collections agency, which adds their own fees to the original fine. This is a common occurrence, as failing to pay or respond to traffic ticket notices can lead to further complications.

Steps You Should Take

Here are the steps you can take to minimize the amount you owe and avoid further legal complications:

1. Understand the Fees Involved

When a fine goes to collections, the collections agency will add their fees to the original fine. These additional fees can significantly increase the amount you owe. It is important to understand the full financial burden you are facing before making any decisions.

2. Contact the Collections Agency

You can request to negotiate the payment amount or seek a reduction in the fee. Sometimes, simply contacting the collections agency can lead to a settlement or a reduced payment plan. Provide any documentation or evidence that may justify a lower fine, such as a valid excuse for not paying the fine on time.

3. Schedule a Hearing with a Judge

If you want a chance to reduce the fine, schedule a hearing with a judge. Be prepared to present any relevant arguments or evidence. If you have a clean driving record and are not a repeat offender, the judge may be more willing to consider reducing the fine.

Personal Experiences and Tips

I learned the importance of paying traffic fines on time from a personal experience. A few years ago, I received a ticket for crossing a solid lane line, which was quite expensive at $350. Unfortunately, my wife failed to follow up on the payment, and the check was never cashed. This oversight resulted in the suspension of my license and a significant increase in the cost to clear the debt. Eventually, it cost me over $1,000 to resolve the issue. This experience highlights the importance of taking care of traffic fines promptly.

Another significant incident was when I was caught driving 81 mph in a 65 mph zone. Despite the fair ticket, I approached the judge with an honest explanation about trying to calm my mother after a close call on the highway. The judge was understanding and reduced the fine from $475 to $285. This outcome emphasizes the importance of explaining your side of the story and being proactive in your approach to resolving traffic violations.

Conclusion and Advice

If your traffic ticket has gone to collections, do not ignore it. Contact the collections agency and the original court to inquire about your options. It is crucial to understand all the fees involved and to take proactive steps to resolve the issue. Additionally, if you have a legitimate reason for not paying the fine, be prepared to present it to the judge during a hearing.

Remember, the cheapest and most straightforward solution is to pay the fine when it is due. Ignoring the situation can lead to more fees, license suspension, and other legal complications. Taking prompt action can save you a considerable amount of time and money in the long run.