penalty fare question

[aaa123]

I was caught by an inspector traveling with a discounted (railcard) ticket. When asked I was honest and explained I don't have a railcard, the officer took my details and handed me a penalty fare of 50 pounds plus the full fare. I paid it the same day and immediately renewed my railcard. However, I have done this numerous times before getting caught. If it makes a difference, the penalty fare covered the difference in price for all the times I have had an invalid ticket and even more. The tickets were purchased online, so I am wondering, is this the end of the matter?

 

[glasgowniteowl]

It is more than likely the end of it,

However if it was investigated further, it would be likely they would be looking to charge you the anytime undiscounted fare for each journey undertaken not just the difference plus an admin fee

 

[aaa123]

Have there been any examples of penalty fares being investigated further? It was a stupid mistake on my end, and I have been purchasing valid tickets since, but I am now worried sick.

Thank you for the help.

 

[Mcr Warrior]

Welcome to the forum. I'm of the opinion that what you've paid (i.e. £50 for prompt settlement of the penalty fare, plus the full cost of a ticket for the journey you made without a valid ticket) only covers the most recent incident, when you got stopped. However, as you've paid up, doubt that the TOC's investigation team will now go looking for any previous transgressions, and you aren't obliged to self-incriminate yourself. BTW, how long ago was the most recent of the other "numerous" occasions?

 

[aaa123]

Early March. Thank you for the help.