GWR Fare Penalty Notice

[cloudwao]

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice and clarification regarding a situation that happened recently.

I was caught short faring at Paddington. I had bought a ticket from Maidenhead to Paddington at the gate, I had actually travelled from Reading to Paddington. When the inspector scanned my ticket, he noted that it had only been purchased a few minutes earlier and asked for my details, including where I had travelled from.

Since I didn’t have my ID with me, he took a photo of my proof of address and my Maidenhead–Paddington ticket. I’m not sure if he also photographed my railcard—I can’t quite remember.

In the end, he issued me a Penalty Fare, which was the cost of a single fare from Reading to Paddington plus a £50 penalty fee. I paid this by card on the spot and was given a receipt.

My question is: does this mean the case is now closed? I’ve read through a few threads here and it seems that usually, if they intend to investigate further or take things under caution, they send a letter later—especially when no payment is taken at the time. Since I paid immediately, should I assume that no further action will be taken?

Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[AlterEgo]

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice and clarification regarding a situation that happened recently.

I was caught short faring at Paddington. I had bought a ticket from Maidenhead to Paddington at the gate, I had actually travelled from Reading to Paddington. When the inspector scanned my ticket, he noted that it had only been purchased a few minutes earlier and asked for my details, including where I had travelled from.

Since I didn’t have my ID with me, he took a photo of my proof of address and my Maidenhead–Paddington ticket. I’m not sure if he also photographed my railcard—I can’t quite remember.

In the end, he issued me a Penalty Fare, which was the cost of a single fare from Reading to Paddington plus a £50 penalty fee. I paid this by card on the spot and was given a receipt.

My question is: does this mean the case is now closed? I’ve read through a few threads here and it seems that usually, if they intend to investigate further or take things under caution, they send a letter later—especially when no payment is taken at the time. Since I paid immediately, should I assume that no further action will be taken?

Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Effectively it means the instance you were caught has been dealt with. If you have short fared other times however GWR may audit your transactions and threaten civil action. If you get such a letter or email please do come back to the forum for advice.

 

[cloudwao]

Effectively it means the instance you were caught has been dealt with. If you have short fared other times however GWR may audit your transactions and threaten civil action. If you get such a letter or email please do come back to the forum for advice.

Got it. But under normal circumstances, is that everything? Since I have paid the penalty it already, and people who usually received a letter are those who didn’t give a chance to pay at spot. Thank you.

 

[AlterEgo]

Got it. But under normal circumstances, is that everything? Since I have paid the penalty it already, and people who usually received a letter are those who didn’t give a chance to pay at spot. Thank you.

It is everything in relation to the time you were stopped yes. But train companies are increasingly auditing historic transactions to detect historic offending as well, so if you've done this before, you may find a nasty letter or email coming your way. GWR and West Midlands Railway both use this strategy.

 

[WesternLancer]

Got it. But under normal circumstances, is that everything? Since I have paid the penalty it already, and people who usually received a letter are those who didn’t give a chance to pay at spot. Thank you.

Just keep proof of payment and any receipt you have and any paperwork you were given. Keep it long term eg at least a year but probably longer.

 

[cloudwao]

Thanks for all your reply. Unfortunately, the records were not found on my train app as the inspector tried to look into it, I guess he was checking if I had a pattern of short faring. But I know they can check it through online even the record is not here. Hopefully that’s the reason he immediately issued a penalty to resolve the issue

 

[jfollows]

No, he could have reported you for potential prosecution, but the fact he didn’t is in your favour.

The case should now be closed but be aware you’re now on their radar in case of future issues.