Railcard Penalty Notice — Phone Died and I Gave Incorrect Details, How Do I Resolve This?

imsoflytho said:

Hi everyone,

I need advice on how to resolve a rail penalty/prosecution issue in the safest and most sensible way.

I travelled with a Railcard-discounted ticket, but my phone died during the journey, so I was unable to show my digital Railcard to the inspector. I do have a valid Railcard, and it was purchased before the time of travel.

The inspector issued me a fare notice and said I could appeal once I got home. However, I panicked during the inspection and provided incorrect details on the form, including my name, address, date of birth and destination. I now realise this was a serious mistake, and I want to correct it before the situation gets worse.

What is the best way to contact the train company or prosecutions team, correct my details, provide proof of my valid Railcard and ticket, and ask for the matter to be dealt with under the forgotten Railcard policy or, if necessary, through an administrative settlement?

I am young and very worried about this escalating, especially as I do not want a criminal record over a stupid mistake. I am not trying to avoid responsibility; I just want to handle this properly and resolve it as soon as possible.

Would it be better to contact them by email so there is a written record, or should I call first?

Any advice on wording or next steps would be appreciated.

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AlterEgo said:

Well, it's an offence to give false details, and there is no way to correct the details without making an admission to an offence. While they don't usually prosecute for this offence, the least risky way to handle this is simply to pay the penalty fare before the amount increases and learn your lesson I'm afraid.

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