EU approves new rights for bus and coach passengers

The European Union has approved new rights that will give bus and coach passengers proper redress when journeys don't go according to plan.

On trips of more than 250 kilometres there will be rights for passengers in the case of death, injury, inconvenience, loss and damage caused by road accidents or other incidents.

In the event of an accident, coach firms will have to offer up to two nights hotel accommodation for no more than €80 per night.

EU Transport spokesperson Helen Kearns says the new rights are similar to those that now apply to airline passengers.