"Discovering the Unhelpful Realm of BVG for a 14-Year-Old"
In the bustling city of Berlin, navigating the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) and its fare-dodging fines can be a complex task, especially for minors and their parents. A recent case involving a 14-year-old student highlights the challenges faced when dealing with BVG's bureaucracy and website technical issues.
## The Case of the Fare-Dodging Student
The son, who was new to Berlin's bureaucracy, found himself in a predicament when he was caught fare-dodging by BVG inspectors four days prior. His parents, unable to upload the new student ticket photo on the BVG website, were left frustrated as numerous attempts at various times proved unsuccessful.
The lines at the BVG customer center on Holzmarktstraße were extremely long, with wait times of several hours. Despite this, the parents eventually gave up and sent their son to the center in hopes of resolving the issue.
Upon arriving, the son met a "nice hipster" at the counter who informed him that his contract wasn't expired and a new card was on its way. The son's ordeal served as a valuable lesson in dealing with Berlin's bureaucracy.
## The Standard Process for Resolving Fare-Dodging Fines
When a minor is caught without a valid ticket, BVG inspectors issue an on-the-spot fine or send a written notice. The process and rights are similar for minors and adults, but parents or legal guardians are typically involved in proceedings for those under 18[1].
Payment can usually be made online via the BVG website, by bank transfer, or at BVG customer centers. However, technical issues may arise, as was the case with the son's family. In such situations, it is essential to try again later, use a different browser/device, or contact BVG customer support directly.
If the issue persists, visiting a BVG customer center or service point with the fine notice and required documentation (ID for the minor and proof of guardianship) is necessary. Requesting an extension of the payment deadline or asking about installment plans, especially if the minor or family faces financial hardship, is also an option.
If there are grounds for contesting the fine (such as a technical issue preventing payment before the deadline), submitting a written objection (Widerspruch) to the address on the fine notice, explaining the circumstances, is advisable.
## Special Considerations for Minors
All communications concerning the fine should include the parent or legal guardian, who may need to provide written consent or accompany the minor to service centers. If the situation is complicated or the family believes the fine is unjust, seeking legal advice is recommended[1].
## Dealing with Website Technical Problems
1. Attempt Again: If the payment fails or the website is unavailable, try again later or use a different browser/device. 2. Contact BVG Directly: If technical issues persist, contact BVG customer support by phone or email. Explain the situation and provide details such as the fine number and personal information for the minor. 3. Pay in Person: Visit a BVG customer center or service point with the fine notice and required documentation (ID for the minor and proof of guardianship). 4. Request Extension or Payment Plan: If needed, you can request an extension of the payment deadline or ask about installment plans, especially if the minor or family faces financial hardship. 5. Appeal the Fine: If there are grounds for contesting the fine (such as a technical issue preventing payment before the deadline), submit a written objection (Widerspruch) to the address on the fine notice, explaining the circumstances.
## Additional Information
- Berlin students have been riding for free since 2019. - The BVG may escalate the fare-dodging case to a debt collection agency if the fine is not paid.
If technical issues prevent timely payment, documentation and prompt communication with BVG are crucial to avoid additional fees or penalties[1].
[1] Source: BVG's official website and legal advice resources for minors in Berlin.
The ongoing challenge for parents and minors in Berlin is navigating the complexities of the BVG bureaucracy and website technical issues, as demonstrated by the recent case involving a student who was unable to pay for his ticket online. Due to these technical problems, it's essential to keep trying, use a different browser or device, and even contact BVG customer support directly for assistance.
