Some traffic offenses to no longer require court appearance

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Illinois drivers charged with certain minor traffic offenses will now be able pay fines or penalties without a court appearance under a new law signed Sunday by Gov. Pat Quinn.

"Motorists can now stay out of court when all they need to do is pay a fine for a minor traffic offense," Quinn said. "This new law helps reduce the burden on drivers and our court system by cutting the number of unnecessary minor cases."

Motorists ticketed with certain petty traffic violations will be able to plead guilty and pay their fines without having to appear in court.

The legislation follows the new "Sign and Drive" law which put an end to drivers having to give up their driver's license as security for traffic violations. Both laws are effective January 1, 2015.