Hi There!

Two months ago, I received a ticket for speeding from the California
Highway Patrol.  This was between San Francisco and Los Angeles.  I
was completely guilty, and wanted to pay the fine.

The officer said the State of California would send me the amount of
the fine, along with a return envelope.  Well, I never received
anything.

To make matters worse, I've since lost the ticket.

So now, I'm driving around owing money to the State.  But I don't know
the amount of the fine, and I don't know where to send my payment.

Every time I see a police car, my pulse quickens and I realize I am
"on the lam."   heh  heh  heh

Help!  I need to pay my debt to society and I don't know how to do so.

Thanks a million!
ron

Howdy ron,

Even though I know you are very familiar with it, it bears to repeat the
"Important Disclaimer: Answers and comments provided on Google Answers
are general information, and are not intended to substitute for informed
professional medical, psychiatric, psychological, tax, legal, investment,
accounting, or other professional advice."

As well-meaning as Steph53's comment might be, I do not think I would
advise you dropping in at a state police station.  If a warrant has been
issued you might be late for supper, if you know what I mean.

Depending on what county you were in when you got the ticket, you can go
to this web page to see if it can all be handled online.
http://www.ca.gov/state/portal/myca_county_courts2.jsp

"Online traffic payment is currently available in the locations listed
below ..."

I doubt you will be able to do the above as you did not appear in court,
but depending on the offense, where the ticket is in the system, etc. it
might be payable that way.

You can also get more information by visiting the California Court's
Traffic Information Self Help page at:
http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/traffic/

Their "Common Questions About Traffic Tickets" web page advises you on
why you want to get a status of your ticket as soon as possible.
http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/traffic/common.htm

"What if I don't go to court or pay for my ticket?

When you sign your ticket, you promise to go to court or pay the fine.

If you don't go to court or pay your fine, your driver's license can be
suspended. And you may not be able to renew your car's registration.

The judge can also charge you with 'contempt of court' or 'failure to
pay a fine.' If that happens, the court can charge you with a misdemeanor
and issue a warrant for your arrest or add an additional fee (called a
'civil assessment') of up to $250."

There is also the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) contact
page:
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/contacts/contacts.htm

"Technicians are available to assist you during normal business hours if
you cannot find the DMV information you seek on this website. Call volumes
are high on Mondays and not all calls can be answered. The best times to
call are Thursdays and Fridays. You may contact us at 1 (800) 777-0133."

Regardless, you need to determine what county you were in when you received
your ticket, then contact that county's court and get this cleared up.  This
page might help you locate the county's court page.
http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/traffic/finding.htm

"Finding Your Local Court"

Here is a map of California with county names notated.
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/statemap.htm

"Click on numbered area for a detailed map."

If you need any clarification, feel free to ask.


Search Strategy:

Google search on: California DMV
://www.google.com/search?q=California+DMV

Looking Forward, denco-ga - Google Answers Researcher

denco---thanks for a terrific answer.  In my family, the only thing
worse than being in jail is being late for supper.   heh  heh  heh

Thanks again!
ron

Hi Ron....

Thats quite the predicament to be in. I would suggest that you stop
into the closest state police station and ask them to run your
driver's licence and plate number through their computer. Explain that
you've never received anything in the mail. Mabe they can tell you
what you owe etc. I know it may sound a bit unnerving to walk into a
police station, however, at least they will know you are sincere in
wanting to straighten out the matter.
Good luck!!

Steph53

steph53----thanks for the great advice.  I will take it if denco's
plan doesn't work out.  Even if I wind up in the slammer with an
unwanted "friend" named Bruce...I still greatly appreciate your
advice.

ron

My pleasure(?) ron,

Agreed, call me anything, but late for supper...

Thanks for the 5 stars!

Looking Forward, denco-ga - Google Answers Researcher