Trains, stop payment in “exceptional circumstances” EU rules, what changes

From Wednesday 7 June The latest EU regulation has come into effect In terms of rail transport, which introduces new provisions for travelers in the event of, for example, a ticket refund and flight rebooking. According to the new rules, in fact, the Rail operators will be exempt from compensation under certain circumstances. Indeed, in the event of delays or cancellations, passengers from this date will not have the right to a refund for the money spent on the flight; While before that they were getting 25% of the cost for being late for more than an hour and 50% for being late for more than two hours.

Except for payment in “exceptional” cases.

Still in the context of reimbursements, the European Union refers in Judgment 2021/782 (which updates the previous ruling, dating back to 2007). But the new rules mean that railway companies will not have to pay compensation, in exceptional circumstances or “force majeure”. what does that mean? they mean Except for events beyond the reasonable control of railway operatorsthesuch as storms, floods, terrorist attacks or epidemics. The rule only applies if the railway company cannot prevent or avoid delays or cancellations caused by these events. Strikes are not recognized as extraordinary events and in this case operators will have to fulfill not only the obligation to refund tickets, but also to redirect passengers.

Self destination and several ways with payment guarantee

Despite the news about the compensation, the new regulations offer more protection to passengers. The European Commission itself has reiterated that the purpose of the regulation is to create a level playing field with other modes of transport. For example, if the flight is interrupted and one is not offered The solution to continue within 100 minutes, you are entitled to the destination selfi.e. being able to organize your own travel by train or bus, depending on whichever is considered more convenient based on your needs, and to be reimbursed by the railway company for the cost Necessary, appropriate and reasonable for the new ticket. Furthermore, there is an increase in the number of routes in which passengers are entitled, in the event of a disconnection, to reimbursement, refreshments or compensation, including accommodation if the journey cannot continue on the same day.

Travel for disabled travelers

Finally, the European ruling introduces some innovations for disabled passengers or passengers with reduced mobility, in order to improve their travel experience. Unless absolutely necessary, it was no longer necessary for another person to accompany them on the journey. if for, The accompanying person is present, and has the right to travel free of charge Sit next to the person being helped. Also a warning period for Status of support requests reduced to 24 hoursmuch less buses and coaches having times of 36 and 48 hours respectively, and it is envisaged that all stations will have a contact person to manage such odds.