Problems with Hungarian bus company
from Jürgen Vogl
However, according to the Bus Passenger Rights Regulation (Regulation (EU) No. 181/2011), passengers are entitled in this case to either a full refund of the ticket costs or to be offered alternative transport. If the company does not offer this choice, those affected are also entitled to compensation amounting to 50 percent of the ticket costs.
As a direct solution with the bus company was not possible, the passengers turned to the apf, which was able to obtain reimbursement of the ticket costs as part of an arbitration procedure. However, in none of the cases was the bus company prepared to pay out the additional compensation to which the passengers were entitled. For this reason, apf is currently considering filing a complaint to ensure that passenger rights are upheld. The competent district administrative authority can impose fines of up to EUR 7,267 per passenger affected.
Notes/recommendations of the apf:
- If the journey is canceled, overbooked or the departure is expected to be delayed by more than 120 minutes, you have the right to alternative transport or a full refund of the ticket price. The company is also obliged to return you to the departure point free of charge if necessary.
- You can assert your claims with the bus company up to a maximum of three months after the journey. If no direct solution with the company is possible, apf will help you to assert your rights free of charge and commission-free.