Commuter sues to recover money on unused rides

A rider on Chicago’s Metra commuter rail service is suing to recover money he lost when his multiple-ride pass expired before all of the trips were taken.

John DiVito of Roselle commutes to Chicago. He says he paid almost $110 for three 10-ride passes in 2009 and 2010 but made only 11 trips before the passes expired. The unused rides had a $66 value.

In the lawsuit filed Tuesday in Cook County Circuit Court, DiVito argues Metra passes should be treated like gift certificates. That means they wouldn’t expire for at least five years.

Metra spokesman Michael Gillis said the agency was not able to comment on the lawsuit.

DiVito said he is seeking class action for his claim. He points out Metra sold 1.9 million 10-ride passes and 9.5 million one-way passes in 2011.

Metra policy states that 10-ride tickets are good for travel for a year after the date of purchase, but they are only refundable within three months of the date of purchase. Refunds are subject to a $5 fee, Gillis said.

Ÿ Daily Herald Staff Writer Marni Pyke contributed to this report.