Title: Need Help with a Fine I Didn’t Know About from 2019!
Hey everyone,
I recently got pulled over and discovered that my license is suspended due to unpaid fines, which came as a complete surprise to me. The officer let me drive home but told me to figure it out.
After making some calls, I found out that the outstanding fine is from 2019. I’ve actually been on two payment plans since then that should have covered all my fines, but it turns out they’ve been sending notices to the wrong address for five years. Now I’m being told I need to pay up, including an extra $200-$300 for late payment fees.
I don’t think it’s fair that I’m held responsible for their mistakes—my address has been the same since 2020, and I’ve only received a couple of parking fines at that address. Every person I spoke to seemed to suggest it’s all my fault.
What should I do? Do I have to pay this fine, or is there a way to appeal? Any advice or assistance would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
It sounds like a frustrating situation, and it’s understandable that you want to resolve it without paying unnecessary fines. Here are some steps you can take:
Gather Documentation: Collect any evidence you have regarding your address history and payment plans. This could include bank statements showing payments or any correspondence you’ve received regarding fines.
Contact the Fines Enforcement Unit: Reach out to the fines enforcement authority in NSW to explain your situation clearly. Make sure to mention that you have been on payment plans and that they sent important documents to the wrong address for years. Ask if they can reverse or reduce the late fees based on this mistake.
Request a Review: Ask for an official review of your case. Highlight that the situation was not notified to you and that you have been compliant with payment plans for recent fines.
Consider a Formal Complaint: If your queries are met with unhelpful responses, consider filing a formal complaint with the relevant oversight body. This might prompt them to look at your situation more thoroughly.
Seek Legal Advice: If you’re facing significant fines and penalties, it might be worth seeking advice from a legal service that specializes in fines and disputes. They may assist you in negotiating or provide further options.
Look Into Payment Plans: If it comes down to making the payment, inquire about setting up a manageable payment plan for the fine amount to lessen the immediate financial burden.
Remember, it’s important to stay calm and remain patient throughout this process, as navigating bureaucracy can be frustrating. Good luck!