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It seems common scene: train passengers complaining about delays, while trains appear to be running less and less on time. A recent article even suggests that train passengers are leaving as much as 20 million euros in compensation unclaimed. But what’s the reality? And what does this mean for you?
Insight into Train Disruptions
Data from rijdendetreinen.nl shows that in 2022, a staggering 5,499 train disruptions were reported, averaging 15 disruptions per day, each lasting an average of over 3 hours. Although these figures provide an impression of the scale of the problem, they offer only limited insight into the actual impact on passengers. What is known is that in 2022, NS awarded a total of 184,996 claims worth 2.2 million euros and also paid out an additional 3.2 million euros for replacement transport. With over 346 million journeys in total, this means that only 0.05% of journeys received compensation, averaging nearly 11.90 euros per claim.
Delay Statistics
To better understand the impact, let’s look at figures from the NS 2022 annual report. In that year, punctuality within 5 minutes was 91.6%, and within 15 minutes, it was an even higher 97.3%. According to the NS, 948,636 train journeys are processed daily, which translates to:
- 54,072 journeys per day with a delay between 5 and 15 minutes (total of 4,506 hours delay)
- 25,613 journeys per day with a delay of 15 minutes or more (total of 6,403 hours delay)
This means that passengers cumulatively experience a delay of 64 weeks every day, assuming the most favorable scenario.
Missed Compensation: Reality and Potential
Due to only 10% of eligible journeys requesting compensation, passengers are missing out on millions of euros in compensation. A simple calculation shows that there are potentially 3.6 million claims per year, which would result in over 21 million euros in unclaimed compensation. It’s important to note that not all delays qualify for compensation. Applying for compensation requires specific circumstances, such as a delay of at least 30 minutes. Want to read more about when a train delay qualifies for compensation? Then read our blog “Compensation for Train Delays: Everything You Need to Know”.
Are We Right to Complain?
It’s understandable that passengers complain about delays. Only 10% of eligible journeys for compensation actually file a claim. Imagine how punctuality would improve if all passengers exercised their rights. These are significant amounts that should not be underestimated. So, it’s important not to let your right to compensation for train delays go unclaimed. Claim your share of the millions of euros lost!