Can you ignore an out-of-state traffic ticket?

Moving violations account for a major number of traffic stops and distribution of traffic tickets, but what happens when you receive a ticket outside your state of residence? Some states are imposing tougher fines on some violations, such as speeding, as the National Highway Safety Traffic Commission reports that over 9,000 people died in 2018 in crashes where speed was a factor.

No matter the cause of your out-of-state traffic ticket, ignoring the violation may cause serious repercussions for your driving record and additional fines, as well as several other consequences.

Suspension of your license 

If you receive a traffic ticket in another state, no matter what the reason, ignoring instructions to pay or any other directive listed on the document may cause the suspension of your license in your home state. The more unpaid tickets you allow to pile up, the greater the chances of you losing your license until you properly address these issues.

Increased fines

When you ignore a traffic ticket received in another state, you may leave yourself open to considerable debt as fines increase due to your failure to pay or contest. If you willfully ignore the ticket, the issuing state retains the right to issue a warrant on the grounds that you failed to appear in court or have not yet paid the ticket fine. If you plan to contest the ticket but have delayed the process because you are not sure where to begin, you may want to contact a lawyer for assistance.

Receiving a traffic ticket in another state may not seem like a serious issue. However, you could lose your license and even face jail time if you do not take steps to resolve it quickly.