Q: What happens when you don't pay a camera photo violation?
A:
Hello Asker,
Technically speaking, nothing. A single camera violation (speeding, redlight, etc.) cannot harm your license. The municipality may report it to the credit bureaus having a negative effect on your credit score. They may also increase the fine by as much as double in late fees. The possibility exists that collections agencies may tack on additional fees beyond these in their collection efforts.
That said, if you have 5 unpaid violations at any given time, the Secretary of State can suspend your license until you make payment on the tickets to the satisfaction of the municipality. This varies from local government to local government. Some will lift the suspension with enrollment on a payment plan while others will require payment in full before allowing the Secretary of State to restore your privileges.
In short, there's very little reason to not pay them given the harm inaction will pose to your license, credit score, and wallet. It should be noted that school bus camera tickets operate quite differently and a single violation can damage driving privileges. Local prosecutors are empowered to send requests for driver identification to those who receive these citations. Failing to respond to them can result in a minimum 3 months suspension of the license plates of the vehicle captured in the photo. Before responding to these letters, it is advisable to speak to an attorney as passing a school bus is a serious violation to admit fault to.
Hope that helps and let us know if you have additional traffic law questions.
Sincerely,
Jason A. Wilkins
Traffic Attorney
(630) 445-2293
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