Compensation for train cancellations and delays: Rail travelers are entitled to this
Delays and train cancellations are everyday companions for rail travelers. In this article, we will tell you what compensation you are entitled to.
These are your passenger rights
What you can expect from the train in the event of train delays and cancellations is regulated in an EU directive. It applies to all railway companies in Germany and Europe.
- If your train is at least 60 minutes late on arrival, you will receive a 25 percent refund. From 120 minutes you will be compensated with 50 percent. This applies to a single trip. For return tickets, the refund will be calculated at half the total price.
- Flat-rate tickets are subject to flat-rate compensation for delays of 60 minutes or more. In local transport it is 1.50 euros in 2nd class and 2.25 euros in 1st class. In long-distance transport, 5 euros apply in 2nd class and 7.50 euros in 1st class. BahnCard 100 holders receive EUR 10 or EUR 15. Refunds are only paid from 4 euros. So you may need to collect multiple cases. Tip: As a commuter, you usually use a weekly or monthly pass. In this way, you also benefit from compensation payments in the event of an emergency.
- It is different if a delay has not yet occurred but is foreseeable. From 20 minutes you can continue later or on another route. You can also use a different train if the delay time is reduced.
- If the expected delay is more than 60 minutes or the train is canceled, you can withdraw from the trip and get the full fare back. If you only drive part of the route and then cancel the trip, you will get back the unused portion. When you return to the start station, the train will also reimburse you for the part used.
- In special cases you can use another means of transport instead of the train, such as bus, taxi or your own car. This is the case if the expected delay is more than 60 minutes and the scheduled arrival time is between 0:00 and 5:00 a.m. Even if the last train of the day is canceled and you no longer arrive at your destination by the end of the day, you can still use this solution. The train reimburses up to 80 euros. If the railway company itself provides the alternative means of transport, you have to accept it.
- In the event of delays, cancellations or if you miss your connecting train, it may be necessary to spend the night in a hotel. Important: The costs for this must be reasonable. You should not check into the luxury hotel. You will get a maximum of 80 euros back. The condition is that due to the adversity on the same day it is no longer possible or unreasonable to continue.
