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Emergency

Train delayed or connection missed: your passenger rights on the railway

For delays in rail transport you have clear claims under European passenger rights: from one hour of delay at the destination there is a partial refund of the fare, and more for larger delays. Onward travel, care and, in certain cases, a taxi can also be refunded.

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Your chances of getting your money back

From 60 minutes of delay at the destination you get 25% of the fare refunded, from 120 minutes 50% (EU passenger rights). The refund is independent of the reason for the delay.
If you miss the last train or arrive at night, taxi costs up to a certain amount or a hotel stay can be refunded. For a large delay you can also withdraw from the journey and get the full price refunded.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Have the delay confirmed

    Have the delay confirmed on the train or at the service point and keep your ticket.

  2. 2

    2. Fill out the passenger rights form

    Submit the passenger rights form with the ticket and proof of the delay.

  3. 3

    3. Assert additional costs

    For a missed connection or last train: assert taxi or hotel costs within the permissible scope.

  4. 4

    4. Follow up

    If the railway does not pay, follow up and, if necessary, involve the conciliation body for public passenger transport.

How to spot the scam

  • The refund is refused across the board with reference to 'force majeure' (usually irrelevant for the fare refund).
  • Receipts for the delay or additional costs are missing.
  • A voucher is offered instead of money.

Frequently asked questions

From when do I get compensation on the railway?

From 60 minutes of delay at the destination 25% of the fare, from 120 minutes 50% (European passenger rights). The refund generally applies independently of the reason for the delay.

Are taxi costs refunded?

If you miss the last train or arrive very late (at night) at the destination, taxi costs up to a certain amount or a hotel stay can be refunded. Keep the receipts and submit them.

What if the railway does not pay?

Follow up with the receipts. If the rejection stands, you can involve the free conciliation body for public passenger transport. For the pure fare refund, the reason for the delay is generally irrelevant.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.