Anderson Injury Lawyers | March 24, 2025 | Personal Injury
Getting a traffic ticket in Texas can be frustrating, but ignoring it or failing to pay on time can lead to serious consequences. Texas law doesn’t take unpaid citations lightly, and penalties can escalate quickly. If you’ve received a ticket, a personal injury attorney with experience in handling traffic ticket cases can help you avoid costly fines, a suspended license, or even an arrest warrant.
Consequences of Not Paying a Traffic Ticket in Texas
If you don’t pay a traffic ticket by the due date, the following consequences may apply:
- Additional fines and fees: The court may add extra penalties, making the total amount you owe much higher.
- Unable to renew license: Unpaid tickets can result in the effective suspension of your driver’s license when you try to renew it, meaning you won’t be legally allowed to drive once it expires.
- Warrant for arrest: A judge may issue a warrant for your arrest if the fine remains unpaid. This means law enforcement could take you into custody if you are stopped for another reason.
- Hold on vehicle registration: Similar to the driver’s license consequence, you may not be able to renew your car or truck’s registration once it expires.
Even a minor traffic citation can turn into a big problem if left unresolved. Addressing your ticket as soon as possible can help prevent these penalties.
Options if You Can’t Pay Your Ticket
If you’re unable to afford your fine, you may have a few options:
- Request an extension: Many Texas courts allow drivers to request additional time to pay their fines.
- Set up a payment plan: You may be able to pay off your ticket in smaller monthly payments instead of a lump sum.
- Perform community service: Some courts allow people to complete community service hours instead of paying a fine.
- Request a fine reduction: If you can show financial hardship, the court may be willing to lower your fine.
If you’re unsure of what to do, contacting the court as soon as possible can help you find the best option for your situation.
Can You Fight a Traffic Ticket in Texas?
Yes. If you believe your ticket was issued unfairly, you have the right to challenge it in court.
You can contest your ticket by:
- Pleading not guilty: You must notify the court by the deadline on your citation that you want to fight the ticket.
- Requesting a trial: You’ll have the opportunity to present your case before a judge or jury.
- Hiring an attorney: A lawyer can help you gather evidence and argue on your behalf to reduce or dismiss the ticket.
Fighting a ticket may help you avoid fines and keep the violation off your driving record, which can prevent higher insurance rates.
How To Prevent Future Ticket Problems
To avoid issues with traffic tickets in Texas, consider the following:
- Pay tickets on time: If you accept the violation, take care of the fine as soon as possible to avoid penalties.
- Keep track of deadlines: If you’re contesting the ticket, make sure you know when you need to appear in court.
- Drive safely: Following traffic laws is the best way to prevent citations in the first place.
Even small violations can turn into costly problems if they’re ignored. Staying proactive can help you avoid unnecessary legal trouble.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Texas
You may have options if you’re facing penalties for an unpaid ticket in Texas.
If you’ve been injured in a Fort Worth or Dallas accident and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.
Anderson Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
1310 W El Paso St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 294-1900
Anderson Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office (Secondary)
6618 Fossil Bluff Dr # 108, Fort Worth, TX 76137
(817) 631-4113
Anderson Injury Lawyers – Dallas Office
408 W Eighth St Suite 202, Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 327-8000
Anderson Injury Lawyers – Dallas Office (Secondary)
6301 Gaston Ave suite 820, Dallas, TX 75214
(469) 457-4711
