SNCF pays out for loss of earnings
Damages claim against rail operator could set a precedent for other passengers who lose out on pay because of delays
THE SNCF could face a surge in damages claims after a court ruled for the first time that the rail operator should compensate a delayed passenger for loss of earnings.
Self-employed acupuncturist Céline Claret-Coquet lost a day of work when her TGV from Lyon to Paris was delayed for six-and-a-half hours because of a fallen power line.
She had a full day of appointments set up in the capital and lost €1044. The power cut also meant she was unable to recharge her mobile phone and could not tell her customers that she could not make it.
Ms Claret-Coquet had also sought €3000 for the damage caused to her professional reputation and the stress caused. This part of her claim was thrown out by the court in Paris, but the SNCF was ordered to pay her €900 for the loss of earnings.
Lawyer David Metaxas said: "These sorts of cases will multiply. Passengers have had enough. This victory will make them realise that they can get back more than just the cost of the ticket."
Five other passengers travelling on the same train are waiting to hear if their claim for a day's pay will be approved.
