Unpaid Georgia Traffic Tickets and License Suspension

Avoid License Suspension and Bench Warrants in Georgia

Overlooking a traffic ticket in Georgia can lead to serious consequences, including license suspension, bench warrants, and legal complications. This guide will help you understand the risks of unpaid traffic tickets and outline steps to resolve them.

If you need immediate help with a suspended license in Georgia, contact our legal team at 404-315-9936 for a free consultation.

Consequences of Unpaid Traffic Tickets

Failing to pay a traffic ticket or missing your court date in Georgia can result in:

• A bench warrant for your arrest: If you fail to appear in court or settle your fines, the court may issue a bench warrant. This means that law enforcement has the authority to arrest you at any time.
• Driver’s license suspension by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS): The DDS is notified of your non-payment or missed court date, leading to a suspension of your driving privileges.
• Notification of the suspension to your home state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you reside outside Georgia: If you live in another state but receive a traffic ticket in Georgia, your home state DMV will be notified of any suspension, which may affect your driving privileges there as well.

Many drivers remain unaware of their license suspension due to a change of address or other reasons. They may continue driving with a suspended license until getting pulled over for another violation or attempting to renew their license, potentially months or years later.

How License Suspension Affects You

A suspended license can have far-reaching effects on your daily life, including:

• Difficulty in commuting: Without a valid license, getting to work, school, or other essential locations can become challenging.
• Increased insurance premiums: Once your license is suspended, your insurance company may categorize you as a high-risk driver, leading to higher premiums.
• Job implications: Many employers require a valid driver’s license, and a suspension could jeopardize your employment, particularly if driving is a part of your job.
• Criminal charges: Continuing to drive with a suspended license can lead to further legal issues, including additional fines, extended suspension periods, or even jail time.

Check Your Driving History

To avoid such situations, you can check your driving history report online for license status. Search for “Georgia (or your state) driving history report” or by visiting your local DDS/DMV office. This report will detail any outstanding traffic violations or license suspensions, allowing you to address them promptly.

Steps to Check Your Driving Record:

1. Visit the Georgia DDS website: The Georgia Department of Driver Services provides an online portal. You can access your driving record through this portal.
2. Request your driving history report: Follow the instructions to obtain a detailed report of your driving history. This will include any tickets, points, or suspensions.
3. Review for errors: Sometimes, errors can appear on your driving record. If you find any discrepancies, contact the DDS immediately to resolve them.

Options for Resolving Unpaid Tickets

You have several options for handling outstanding citations:

• Pay the Fines: The simplest solution, but it won’t prevent the violation from affecting your driving record and insurance rates. Paying the fine is an admission of guilt, which could result in points on your license.
• Contest the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you can contest it in court.
• Seek Legal Representation: A Georgia traffic lawyer, such as Attorney Scott Fortas, can help you navigate the legal process, potentially minimizing the impact on your driving record and insurance premiums.

How to Pay or Contest a Traffic Ticket

If you choose to pay the fine, you can typically do so online Other options are by mail, or in person at the court listed on your citation. It’s important to pay before the deadline to avoid additional penalties.

To contest a ticket, you must request a court hearing before the deadline. A Ga Attorney can do this for you.

Benefits of Legal Representation for License Suspension

Hiring a traffic lawyer in Georgia can offer several advantages:

• Knowledge of Traffic Laws: Our team possesses in-depth understanding of Georgia traffic laws and court procedures, ensuring that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.
• Experienced Negotiators: With extensive experience negotiating with prosecutors and judges, we strive to secure the best possible outcome for our clients, whether that means reduced penalties, dismissed charges, or alternative sentencing options.
• Reduced Points and Violations: An experienced attorney may be able to reduce the points added to your license, helping to protect your driving record and prevent future insurance hikes.
• Protection of Your Driving Record: By effectively managing your case, a lawyer can help protect your driving record from negative impacts, which is crucial for maintaining your license and avoiding higher insurance rates.
• Peace of Mind: They handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on other priorities, such as your job, family, and personal responsibilities.

Understanding the Georgia License Suspension Process

Immediate Suspension: In Georgia, your license can be suspended immediately upon failure to pay a traffic ticket or if you miss a court date. The court notifies the DDS, which then suspends your license until the matter is resolved.

Notice of Suspension: The DDS will send you a notice of suspension by mail. This notice includes details on why your license was suspended and what steps you need to take to reinstate it. It’s crucial to keep your address updated with the DDS to ensure you receive all necessary communications.

Reinstatement Process: To reinstate your license, you typically need to pay all outstanding fines. You also need to resolve any court issues, and pay a reinstatement fee to the DDS. You may also be required to complete a defensive driving course or other corrective actions. This depends on the severity of the violation that suspended your license.

Don’t Delay, Act Today!

Ignoring unpaid traffic tickets in Georgia can have serious repercussions. Take proactive steps to resolve them promptly to avoid Georgia license suspension, bench warrants, and potential legal issues. If you’re facing unpaid traffic tickets in Georgia, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. A qualified traffic lawyer can guide you through the process. Attorneys fight to protect your rights, and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Call our office 24/7 at 404-315-9936 or complete our online form, and we will contact you.