In some jurisdictions, a court can dismiss a default judgement, if you show that was a good reason for missing the hearing. That still takes you back to square

In some jurisdictions, a court can dismiss a default judgement, if you show that was a good reason for missing the hearing. That still takes you back to square one though, with an outstanding court case (and missing the next hearing would look pretty negative). If you manage to stay under the radar, you may eventually escape liability by exceeding the time-limits under a Statute of Limitations, but it's usually a risky and lengthy endeavor.