Uh Oh! Did You Forget About That Parking Spot? How to Find Those Pesky New York Violations
Living in the city that never sleeps means there's always a million things going on. Between dodging rogue pigeons, deciphering those cryptic bodega signs, and trying to remember what day it is (is it Saturday or Sunday? Honestly, who can tell?), it's easy to forget about that little "incident" involving a double-parking situation and a very disgruntled delivery guy.
Fear not, fellow New Yorker! We've all been there. The good news is, tracking down those pesky parking tickets (or any other violation notices) is easier than navigating the L train at rush hour.
Facing the Music (But Hopefully Not Literally)
There are a couple of ways to find out if you've got outstanding violations in the Big Apple.
Channel Your Inner Sherlock: Grab your magnifying glass (or, you know, your phone) and head to the NYC Department of Finance website. They have a handy dandy tool called "PVO Search" where you can type in your license plate number or that ticket number scrawled across a crumpled piece of paper hiding in your glove compartment. Be warned: This might reveal some hidden truths about your car's social life (like all those times it decided to visit a red zone without you).
Calling on Your City Spirit: If you're more of a phone person, you can dial 311 – that's New York's magical number for pretty much everything (except finding a decent slice of pizza after 2 am, but that's a whole other story). A friendly customer service representative will be happy to dig into the city's database and unearth those mysterious violations.
Remember: Knowledge is power, even if that knowledge involves a few unpaid parking tickets.
Uh Oh, My Violations Are Multiplying Like Gremlins After Midnight!
So, you've found your violations. What now? Well, my friend, that depends on your risk tolerance and your negotiation skills. You can:
Pay Up, Buttercup: The Department of Finance website also allows you to settle your debts with a few clicks (or taps, if you're on your phone). Just make sure you have your credit card handy (and maybe a stress ball, because, let's face it, parking tickets can be brutal).
Contest the Charge (if you think you have a good case): Hey, sometimes those parking meters are malfunctioning, or maybe that rogue fire hydrant appeared out of thin air overnight. If you think you've been wrongly accused, you can plead your case online or by mail. Just be prepared to back up your story with evidence stronger than "my dog ate the parking permit."
Here's the golden rule: Don't ignore those violations! They have a nasty habit of growing interest faster than a line for cronuts on a Saturday morning.
FAQ: Because Adulting is Hard
How to avoid violations in the first place? Practice defensive driving, befriend a parking fairy, and maybe invest in a good parking karma charm.
How to pay a parking ticket? The Department of Finance website (we're becoming good friends with them, aren't we?) accepts online payments.
How to contest a parking ticket? You can plead your case online or by mail, but be prepared to provide evidence.
How long do I have to pay a parking ticket? Don't wait too long, or interest charges will make your head spin faster than a rogue cabbie on a one-way street.
How to find out if I have any other types of violations (besides parking)? The Department of Motor Vehicles website might be your best bet for non-parking infractions.
Now, go forth and conquer those violations! Remember, a little planning (and maybe some street smarts) can save you a whole lot of hassle (and potentially a hefty fine).
