What Happens If You Don’t Pay a Speeding Ticket?

Consequences of Unpaid Speeding Tickets

Failing to pay a speeding ticket in a timely manner can lead to significant consequences. These include immediate financial charges, potential impacts on both your driving record and insurance rates, and the risk of getting your driver’s license suspended.

Immediate Financial Repercussions

Unpaid speeding tickets can quickly accrue additional costs. If the original ticket is not paid by the deadline, a late fee is often added, increasing the total amount you owe. In Ontario, the fine includes a victim surcharge along with the initial penalty. Unpaid fines may be sent to a fines enforcement program, where additional charges can be applied.

If the debt remains unsettled, it may be referred to a collections agency, further increasing costs and potentially affecting your credit score. 

Impact on Driving Record and Insurance Rates

An unpaid speeding ticket can negatively affect a person’s driving record. A speeding ticket  conviction may also come with demerit points to your license. Insurance companies will see all convictions on a driver’s abstract and adjust insurance rates accordingly.

License Suspension Risks

Unpaid speeding tickets can also threaten your driving privileges. Ignoring overdue fines might lead to a license suspension. After an unpaid ticket, there is a risk that the court may take action to suspend your driver’s license until the fine is paid.

This can cause significant inconvenience and additional costs, including fees to reinstate your license once the fine is paid.. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What legal actions can be pursued against someone who fails to pay a speeding ticket in Canada?

Legal actions may include garnishing wages. Courts may also charge additional penalties for unresolved fines, making it more costly over time.

Are there additional penalties for paying a speeding ticket after the due date?

Late payment of a speeding ticket often incurs additional fees. These fees increase the total amount owed and can put further strain on a person’s financial situation.