Skip to content
NOWCAST KCRA 3 News at 11pm
Watch on Demand
Advertisement

Rossen Reports: What to do if your luggage gets damaged on a flight

Rossen Reports: What to do if your luggage gets damaged on a flight
Hi, yeah, Millions of us are going to be flying for the holidays. It's important to know your travel rights. You want to know what do you do if you get to the baggage carousel and your luggage is damaged, right? First, know what's covered and what's not. According to the DOT, airlines are not required to pay for normal wear and tear, things like minor scratches or scuffs, but things like large cracks, broken wheels, damaged zippers and handles, those are all fair game. So I want you to report. The damage to the airline as soon as possible when that happens. Do it while you're still at the airport right there. Most have rules for how quickly you need to make *** report. Delta, for example, requires you to report damage within 24 hours on domestic flights. For Southwest, it's only 4 hours, so make sure you act fast. From there, the airline should repair or replace the bag or pay the cost for you to get *** new one. For flights within the US, DOT says the maximum liability for *** lost, delayed or damaged bag is $3800. Keep in mind that's the max. One last thing, if you booked your trip on *** credit card, check to see if it includes baggage insurance. Many of them do, and that coverage could come in handy if the airline isn't being helpful, which happens. All right. You can also file *** complaint with the DOT. I'm gonna include *** link to do that on my website, Rossonreports.com. Back to you.
Advertisement
Rossen Reports: What to do if your luggage gets damaged on a flight
Millions of travelers will be flying for the holidays, and it's crucial to know what to do if your luggage is damaged.First, understand what airlines cover and what they don't. The Department of Transportation states that airlines aren't required to pay for normal wear and tear, such as minor scratches or scuffs. However, significant damage like large cracks, broken wheels, or damaged zippers and handles should be reported.Next, report the damage to the airline as soon as possible, ideally while still at the airport. You’ll need to act fast because each airline has specific rules for reporting damage. Delta for example requires you to report damage within 24 hours on domestic flights. For Southwest, it’s only four hours.If liable, the airline should repair or replace the bag or compensate you for a new one. For flights within the U.S., the DOT sets the maximum liability for a lost, delayed, or damaged bag at $3,800, but don't expect to receive the full amount for minor damages.Lastly, check if your credit card offers baggage insurance, which can be useful if the airline isn't cooperative. If necessary, you can also file a complaint with the DOT.

Millions of travelers will be flying for the holidays, and it's crucial to know what to do if your luggage is damaged.

First, understand what airlines cover and what they don't. The Department of Transportation states that airlines aren't required to pay for normal wear and tear, such as minor scratches or scuffs. However, significant damage like large cracks, broken wheels, or damaged zippers and handles should be reported.

Advertisement

Next, report the damage to the airline as soon as possible, ideally while still at the airport. You’ll need to act fast because each airline has specific rules for reporting damage. Delta for example requires you to report damage within 24 hours on domestic flights. For Southwest, it’s only four hours.

If liable, the airline should repair or replace the bag or compensate you for a new one. For flights within the U.S., the DOT sets the maximum liability for a lost, delayed, or damaged bag at $3,800, but don't expect to receive the full amount for minor damages.

Lastly, check if your credit card offers baggage insurance, which can be useful if the airline isn't cooperative. If necessary, you can also file a complaint with the DOT.