TRAIN commuters are set for more misery this week as thousands of train staff strike over jobs and pay, bringing national networks to a standstill.
But if you need to travel by train, you might be able to claim compensation – here's what you need to know.
The strike began today (July 27) with further dates set for August 18 and August 20.
It is also expected to wreak havoc on the non-strike days this week too.
It's a major blow to commuters and those travelling for leisure – particularly if you're heading to Birmingham for this years Commonwealth Games.
People are advised not to travel during the strikes if possible and use alternative transport means. However, if you've already purchased a train ticket, here's how you could claim compensation.
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Can you get refunds for tickets affected by the rail strikes?
If you have bought an advance train ticket and it's affected by the strikes, you will be able to claim at least some of your money back.
National Rail said this applies to journeys that have been cancelled, rescheduled or delayed.
The process varies depending on the train operator, but normally you will need to contact the company, provide a picture of your ticket and details of the train you were supposed to be on.
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This is part of what's called "Delay Repay".
The scheme will give pay-outs to customers if their train has been delayed by a certain amount of time.
How much you get depends on the train operator, the type of ticket and how long the delay was.
In order to claim you'll need a photo or screenshot of your ticket. If it's an eticket this needs to include the barcode.
If you're a season ticket holder, you'll need to provide a scan of your photocard.
You'll need your booking confirmation containing your booking reference, journey details and the cost of your ticket.
If you don't have your ticket then you'll need to provide a receipt with your journey details and the price paid.
Can rail season ticket holders get compensation?
Season ticket holders should be able to claim back 100% of the usual compensation should they decide not to travel on any of the strike days, even if their train hasn't been cancelled.
This won't apply to the non-strike days, however, even though services will still be affected by the industrial action.
Will I be able to travel on a different service?
Advance tickets may be accepted on different trains and routes during the strike.
But again, this will depend on individual operators.
Travellers are advised to contact train companies directly for more information.
You can contact your train firm by phone, email or social media.
How can I check if my train has been cancelled?
The National Rail journey planner is the best way to check if your journey has been affected by the strike – this is available on its website and app.
Individual train companies also have their own apps and websites with details of changes to timetables, and many are putting information on social media.
Elsewhere, we've looked at whether your employer has to pay you if you can't get to work because of the strikes.
And we've got more details on exactly when the rail strikes start and finish, and which lines will be affected.
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