Can Bankruptcy Remove Traffic Violation Tickets?

Traffic violations can happen. Maybe you missed the stop sign, ran a red light, or were caught speeding. While these fines may not seem like a big deal, the average traffic violation in Ohio can range from $150 to $500. However, if you choose to contest your ticket, you’ll also be responsible for the additional court fees, not to mention that if you are caught speeding in a construction zone, the total fine can be doubled. Many people will try to pay these fines right away so it is handled and does not jeopardize their driving privileges. Unfortunately, when you cannot afford to pay your fines, you run the risk of losing your driver’s license. But if you are considering filing for bankruptcy, you may wonder, can bankruptcy remove traffic violation tickets? The Jones Law Firm explains.

Traffic Violation Tickets--Can Bankruptcy Clear Them?

Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you cannot discharge traffic violation tickets. However, Chapter 7 bankruptcy can eliminate other types of debt, making it easier for you to pay off traffic tickets. While in Chapter 7 those violations won’t be cleared, in Chapter 13 bankruptcy, they might be. This is because, under the bankruptcy code, certain fines and penalties can be discharged so long as they are not criminal in nature. You will need to meet with an Ohio bankruptcy attorney who can review the details of your traffic violations and see if they can be included in your dischargeable debts. Even if you cannot discharge them, you will be able to work at paying them off through your Chapter 13 repayment plan over three to five years.

I failed to pay back my tickets and now my license is suspended. Can bankruptcy help?

This is a multifaceted problem that bankruptcy can help remedy in part. In Ohio, you must pay a license reinstatement fee in addition to those traffic violation fines. However, by filing for bankruptcy, the Ohio Driver’s License reinstatement fees can be discharged, meaning it is one less debt you must account for. In addition, if you have successfully begun the Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy process, you can regain your driver’s license by presenting the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles a court-stamped petition or bankruptcy discharge as well as a copy of your debt repayment schedule or those included in your discharge.

Traffic Violations and Bankruptcy: The Jones Law Firm

Traffic violations happen. But when you cannot pay back those issued fines, you may face penalties and the risk of losing your driver’s license. If you have considered bankruptcy and want to know how it can help you mandate your traffic violation debt, The Jones Law Firm is here to help. Ohio bankruptcy attorney Michael Ryan Jones will guide you every step of the way so that you get the fresh financial start that you deserve. If you are considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy or Chapter 7 bankruptcy and not sure what your first steps should be, know that you're not alone. We are here to help. Please contact The Jones Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation.