Hello,
A few days ago I travelled to City airport with the DLR. I changed at Shadwell but I didn't swipe my oyster card at this station as there are no barriers there. I never use the DLR and I certainly didn't know the importance of touching your oyster card in and out at all times.
When I arrived at the airport an inspector checked my card and gave me a penalty of £80 (£40 if I pay in 21 days). I didn't complain or tried to explain as it was early in the morning, was half asleep and also had a flight to catch. To be honest with you I thought that I wouldn't pay it anyway and I would give her a false adrress.
I stupidly enough showed her my passport and she wrote down my name, then I gave a wrong adrress and I also signed.
When I had a closer look at the ticket a few hours later I realised that maybe I wouldn't get away with it as easily as I had though as she also wrote down my passport number and date of birth!
I am angry with myself for not paying attention first of all and for not trying to defend myself or apologise as I could have avoided the penalty and pay the maximum charge instead. On the other hand the lady inspector didn't seem to be in a helpful mood at all. Someone else checked my card on the train as well and didn't say anything (?) and also I had enough funds in my payg card, and my travel history can show that I never use the DLR !
A friend of mine had a similar situation but didn't show any id, just gave a false adrress and nothing ever happened. My passport however is EU but not British and I'm not a "settled" person here. I was wondering if I ignore the whole thing what could happen to me...I don't know whether the inspector has my oyster details in her machine but I could buy a new one not registered. Most of all I'm trying to understand how avoiding paying the penalty will affect me under these circumstances rather than seeking tips not pay it. (Although they would be welcome )
cheers
