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Last week I talked about Rule 240 which spells out how
your airline is likely to treat you if your air travel is
disrupted by a flight delay, cancellation or misconnection.
This week I'll address problems with lost baggage.
Check the Web site and print the rules
for the airline you are using by clicking on the "Rules of
the Air" icon. Airlines may be willing to offer service
beyond their rules, so never hesitate to ask for more than a
rule requires.
There are similarities and major differences in the way
that two of the airlines that fly from Denver International
United and Continental handle lost, damaged or delayed
baggage.
Both airlines limit the amount they will reimburse you
for lost or damaged baggage to $1,250 per customer. They
expect you to provide with them an itemized list of luggage
contents, dates purchased and price paid. Then they will
reimburse you based on the original purchase price less
depreciation.
Both airlines allow you to purchase additional coverage
at the rate of $1.00 for each $100 of additional value up to
a maximum of $5,000. You must request this additional
coverage. Continental Rule 190A states that the bag must be
checked in at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled
departure time. United will not cover any expenses for lost
or delayed baggage including interim expenses and delivery
costs if your luggage is not checked in 15 minutes prior to
scheduled departure time.
If you have met the check-in time and your luggage does
not arrive at the destination with you, airlines are
responsible for interim expenses caused by delayed baggage.
Make sure you have a copy of the rules with you; you may
have to argue the point.
The major difference between airlines is in the
definition of what is not covered. Continental is not
responsible for damage, delay or loss of items such as
jewelry, optics, works of art, business equipment, antiques,
photographic/audio/video equipment, computer
hardware/software, etc. United's list of exclusions is
shorter than Continental's and lists items such as jewelry,
cameras, and electronic/video/photographic equipment but
does not mention computer hardware/software or optics.
If you have a horrible experience and want to complain
when you get home, you can file a complaint that will be
forwarded to the appropriate airline and government agency
at .
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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