Long delays on TGV trip to Paris. Compensation from SNCF is less than expected. Should I appeal?
I had a lousy weekend trip from Stuttgart to Paris back in February. The train was initially delayed and then cancelled. An official told us to take the train to Mannheim and then to Paris. We arrived in Paris over 3 hours late. The return train was over 1 hour late arriving.
I submitted a claim on that basis. My estimate was that I should get 75% 50% for the outward journey and 25% for the return.
I received an email today saying that they would pay 50% for the outward journey and nothing for the return.
Is my estimate correct and it is worth appealing?
Update
The tickets were bought online at SNCF.
SNCF compensation policy is sncf.com/fr/service-client/en-cas-de-retard/tgv-intercites
Best Answer
The compensation of 25% for 1 hour delay and 50% for 2 hours delay do not accumulate in case of longer delays. So 50% for the outward journey is correct. However, if you arrived more than 1 hour late at your destination on your return, you should be eligible for a 25% refund for that part as well (keep in mind, that the delay at your destination counts, not the delay of a single train leg in your journey).
Edit: Above numbers are related to the European rules for delay compensations. However, SNCF offers a more detailed compensation scheme for TGV tickets. However, the information about that seem to be a bit contradicting between the different translations on the SNCF homepage. Following links indicate, that the G30 guarantee, which would offer 75% compensation for delays over 3 hours, is also valid for international tickets: https://www.sncf.com/fr/service-client/en-cas-de-retard/tgv-intercites https://en.oui.sncf/en/help-en/delay-train
According to the following link though, it seems to only apply to domestic TGV routes, while for international routes the compensation is similar to the EG rules: https://www.oui.sncf/aide/retard-de-votre-train-et-remboursement
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How much compensation do you get for train delays?
Check your train company's website to find out if they offer Delay Repay (they might call it 'delay compensation'. You're legally entitled to compensation of: 50% of your ticket price if you get to your destination between 30 minutes and an hour late.How long do you have to claim for a delayed train?
No matter what caused the delay, you can claim compensation up to 28 days after your journey.What happens if my train is delayed and I miss a connection?
Missed connection Advance tickets are valid only for a specific train. However if you miss the train because the connecting train on which you started your journey was late, then the train operator will accept your ticket on the next available train.What happens if SNCF train is Cancelled?
Head to your nearest train station to exchange the ticket. If you're not near a train station, then arrive at least 1 hour before your intended departure so you can exchange the ticket and get another seat.TGV OUIGO Angers to Paris | Low Cost High Speed Double Decker Train Report - France
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