If a defendant fails to appear at an informal or formal hearing the  court may enter a default determination of responsibility and impose  appropriate sanctions. Failure to answer a citation or notice to appear  in court for an informal or formal hearing can also result in license  suspension. 

To request  an informal or formal hearing, notify the court in person, in writing  or by phone, that you are denying responsibility for your citation and  specify if you wish to have an informal or formal hearing.