The backlog stems from the new computer system they’ve been having problems with since August. The DMV normally sends out around 8,000 letters a month to drivers whose registration may be suspended because of changes to insurance. Since August, that number is averaging over 11,000 per month.
All day Friday people were showing up at the DMV in Wethersfield looking for answers.
Sands got a letter dated December 4, 2015, saying her registration was in question.
“I saw it on the news they made a mistake and I'm bringing all my documentation,” said Taisha Sands of Waterbury.
On Thursday, DMV Commissioner Andres Ayala Jr., addressed the problem saying, “Any fines and fees incurred from August 18th, 2015 through January 9th, 2016 as a result of a DMV error, will be reimbursed by DMV."
Governor Dan Malloy said he'll keep a close eye on the happenings at DMV. He didn't say if the snafus have shaken his confidence in the commissioner.
FOX 61 asked if he though the problem with the software was a learning curve, a bug or human error.
"I think at this point, it’s probably getting people used to the system," Malloy said. "I’m not excusing the DMV for not getting their job done. Data needs to be recorded in a timely fashion and we’ll hold this folks accountable for that."
It's been five months since the software changeover. The Governor said the hopes frustrated drivers think of the long term.
"DMV computer systems should’ve been changed 20 years ago, 15 years ago, 10 years ago, 5 years ago," No one ever did it because it’s a gigantic job and it’s always a headache."
"You’re always going to have a lot of complaints," he said. "I simply made the decision that we were going press ahead and with the patience of the people of Connecticut, we will have a modern DMV as oppose to the model we’ve been stuck with."
Fox 61 has received several emails and messages from viewers saying they were pulled over, towed, or told their registration was suspended when they claim they have proof it wasn't. Some have even paid the $200 fine out of fear.
Ayala said they are working tirelessly to sort out just how many of these letters were legitimate and drivers who have proof of registration need not worry.
“DMV will not give a list of registration suspensions for insurance compliance to law enforcement until a backlog of cases is cleared up,” he said.
If you received one of those letters and were told to pay a fine, or you already have, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and possibly get a refund found here.