Low-income families do not have to pay traffic tickets and court fees!

In a recent court ruling, about 184,000 NC residents can have their driver’s license restored. Originally, these people had their license revoked for failure to pay fines, court fees and other related costs. Most did not even show up for their court date. All of these people committed traffic violations like speeding, failure to yield, driving while impaired, running a red light, etc.

Apparently, these people argued that they could not afford to pay the traffic fines. Recent articles in the Charlotte “fishwrap” showed that majority of the violators are minorities. Thus, a new term has been created, “Driving Injustice.” Yes-the real problem is racism. Really? Reports show that many minorities do not show up to court nor pay the traffic fines. Many claim they did not know about the court date. Hmmm?

In a study released in 2019 covering the years 2013-2017, the data showed that Blacks accounted for 47% of the license suspensions, while only representing 21% of the population. Majority of these suspensions were for lack of payment.

Perhaps these violators do not have $180 to pay for a speeding ticket, but what exactly should the law require? It seems reckless to me to “forgive” fines due to income problems. What then is the penalty? Pictures shown in the newspaper show these violators reading their $800 cell phones……

The NC DMV has agreed to better inform these drivers as to their court dates, then they can appear in court to argue their lack of funds. I hope that is a “high bar.” And-not applicable to repeat offenders. Tickets issued to traffic violators show court dates and court location.

And another point-one local DA says the courts should separate financial debt from driving eligibility. Exactly what does that mean or lead to! Does that mean a low-income speeder does not have to worry about tickets and fees??? That sounds crazy! What then is the downside to breaking the law and endangering others??

The first priority of the government of NC is the protection of its citizens. I do not believe this action will protect our safety.