Part of the problem, critics say, is the use of private collection agencies to collect unpaid fines, which result in rapid escalation of costs. The reasons behind the use of these agencies are multifold. The cost of collecting fees and fines is a significant burden to courts. If people don't pay fines, it is hard to make them do so. The only thing a Judge can do is issue a bench warrant, which then has to be served and the person arrested. Police don't have the time or money to do this, so people are only caught if they are pulled over and someone does a "wants and warrants" on them.
Yes, having a car is awfully handy in this day and age, but whether one "needs" one or wants one is not always clear.
The point is, owning a car and driving are privileges not rights. And yea, it sucks if you don't have a car. But the alternative - making driving a right and not a privilege and then allowing people to walk away from court appearances, fines, etc, is just not an option.