Missing your court date for a traffic ticket may seem like a small mistake — but it can lead to serious legal and financial consequences.
1. Bench Warrant Issued:
In many jurisdictions, if you miss court, the judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. You could be arrested during a routine traffic stop.
2. License Suspension:
Most DMVs automatically suspend your license if you fail to appear or pay. You won’t be notified in person — it may come by mail, and if you miss it, you could drive unknowingly on a suspended license.
3. Additional Fines & Penalties:
Late fees and “failure to appear” penalties can double or triple the original cost.
4. Damage to Driving Record & Insurance Rates:
An open warrant or suspension will show up in background checks, affecting employment or car insurance.
What Can You Do?
- Act fast. Contact the court ASAP and explain the situation.
- Hire a traffic lawyer. They can file a motion to vacate the failure to appear and reschedule your case.
- Check your DMV record. Make sure your license hasn’t already been suspended.
In many cases, courts are willing to work with you — but only if you take proactive steps. Ignoring a missed date turns a simple ticket into a legal headache.