What happens if I ignore a traffic ticket?

Ignoring a traffic ticket in California can have serious consequences. If you fail to respond to your ticket within 21 days, the court may add a civil assessment of up to $300 to the amount of your fine. This can dramatically increase the cost of your ticket and make it much more difficult to pay. If you continue to ignore the ticket, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest. This is called a bench warrant and it will remain in effect until you appear in court and take care of your traffic ticket. If you’re arrested while the bench warrant is in effect, you may be kept in jail until you can make defendant will appear in court when required.">bail or post a bond to cover your ticket. Ignoring a ticket can also affect your driving record. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will add one point to your record for each year you don’t respond to the ticket. If the point total reaches four points, you will be placed on “probation” and may face having your license suspended or revoked. The best way to handle a traffic ticket is to take care of it immediately. Responding to the ticket promptly will reduce the chances of additional costs, arrests, or points being added to your record. Depending on the violation, you may be able to take care of the ticket by mail, online, or in person at the courthouse.

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What happens if I ignore a traffic ticket?

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