1. Introduction

Quotabus S.r.l. ("Quotabus", "we", "us" or "our") is an Italian company (Via Stadio 20, 95020 Aci Bonaccorsi, Italy, P. IVA 06086330872) that operates a dual-model software platform for group transportation services. These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern all use of the Quotabus website and services (collectively, the "Platform"), including:

• B2B SaaS Services: a subscription-based software platform provided to bus companies and operators for quotations, fleet management, customer relationship management (CRM), invoicing, and embedded booking forms on their websites.
• B2C Travel Agency Services: a licensed travel agency service through which Quotabus facilitates group transportation bookings for private and business customers (such as companies, schools, travel agencies, sports associations) leveraging the software built. All transportation services are performed by independent third-party bus operators, not by Quotabus itself.

By accessing or using the Platform (whether as a bus company or as a traveler/customer), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms, as well as our Privacy Policy and any othe should not use the Platform or services.

2. Definitions

For the purpose of these Terms, the following definitions apply (capitalized terms will have these meanings throughout the document):

• "Quotabus" or the "Company" – Refers to Quotabus S.r.l., the provider and operator of the Platform and services described in these Terms.
• "Platform" – The web-based and/or mobile software platform operated by Quotabus (www.quotabus.com), including all tools, applications, services, and functionality provided through it for both bus companies and travelers.
• "Bus Company" or "Operator" – Any legal entity or individual that operates buses or coaches for hire and uses the Platform (typically under a subscription) to manage their services. A Bus Company may use the Platform’s SaaS features (quotations, fleet management, etc.) and may also fulfill transportation bookings for Customers. In the context of B2C services, a Bus Company acts as the transport service provider (carrier) responsible for executing the group transport.
• "Customer" or "Traveler" – Any person or legal entity (such as an individual consumer, company, school, travel agency, sports club, or other organization) that uses the Platform to request or book group transportation services. This includes both private individuals and business clients seeking to charter buses or other group transport.
• "User" – Any user of the Platform, whether a Bus Company or a Customer (or any person browsing or using the site). "You" and "your" refer to the User.
• "Services" – The services provided by Quotabus through the Platform, encompassing both the SaaS Platform Services for Bus Companies and the Travel Agency/Booking Services for Customers. When we refer to the SaaS Services, we mean the B2B software platform features. When we refer to the Booking Services or Charter Services, we mean the B2C group transportation arrangement services.
• "Booking" – A reservation, order, or agreement for group transportation made through the Platform. A Booking is created when a Customer requests transportation and a Bus Company (through the Platform) confirms availability and pricing, leading to the Customer's acceptance and payment.
• "Subscription" – The paid plan or agreement under which a Bus Company accesses the SaaS features of the Platform. Subscriptions may be monthly or annual (or as otherwise offered) and are subject to subscription fees.
• "Embedded Booking Form" – A web form or widget provided by Quotabus that Bus Companies can embed on their own websites to collect quote requests from customers directly, with those requests managed through the Platform.
• "Third-Party Operator" – A bus operator or charter service provider that actually operates the vehicles and carries out the transportation for a Booking. (Typically this will be the same as the Bus Company fulfilling a Booking, but in all cases it refers to an entity independent of Quotabus.)
• "Third-Party Service Provider" – Any external service or vendor that Quotabus uses to support the Platform or Services, such as payment processors, mapping services, cloud hosting providers, or email/SMS services. Examples include Stripe (payment processing), Google Maps (mapping and location data), Google Cloud (hosting and data storage), and Mailgun (email delivery), among others. These providers may process data or transactions as needed to deliver the Services, under agreements compliant with GDPR and applicable law.
• "Privacy Policy" – The separate policy document that explains how Quotabus collects, uses, and protects personal data. Our Privacy Policy is an integral part of these Terms, and by using the Platform you agree to the data practices described in it (see ​Privacy Policy).

Other terms may be defined elsewhere in the text of these Terms. In case of any ambiguity in interpretation, the context in which a term is used will determine its meaning. Headings are provided for convenience and do not affect interpretation.

3. Scope of Services

3.1 Platform Services for Bus Companies (B2B SaaS)

Quotabus provides Bus Companies with a comprehensivesoftware-as-a-service (SaaS) platform designed to modernize, automate, and streamline their operations. Through the Platform, Bus Companies can manage the full charter workflow — from receiving structured quote requests and sending quotations to clients, to planning trips, managing fleets and drivers, handling customer relationships, and issuing invoices. The Platform is built to reduce manual tasks, improve efficiency, and support business scalability.

Key features of the Platform for Bus Companies include:

• Quote Management: Tools to receive inquiries (including via an embedded booking form on the Bus Company’s own website) and respond with professional quotes quickly, including automated communications to save time.
• Fleet Management: A module to manage vehicle details, availability, maintenance schedules, and compliance documents, ensuring the Bus Company’s fleet information is up-to-date for booking assignments.
• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Functionality to store and manage client information, past inquiries and bookings, and communications, helping Bus Companies build relationships with their customers.
• Invoicing and Payments: Integrated invoicing tools to bill customers for services and track payments. The Platform may support online payment processing (e.g., via Stripe) so that Bus Companies can accept credit card payments from their clients securely.
• Analytics and Reporting: Insightful dashboards or reports on metrics like inquiries received, bookings confirmed, revenue, vehicle utilization, etc., to help Bus Companies optimize their operations.
• Embedded Booking Form: A Quotabus-provided web booking form that Bus Companies can place on their own site to funnel customer requests directly into the Platform for easy handling. This allows Bus Companies to offer customers a seamless way to request quotes 24/7, with all data captured in the Quotabus system for follow-up.

Quotabus’s aim is to replace outdated or manual workflows in the group transportation industry with a seamless, end-to-end digital platform for Bus Companies. By subscribing to and using the Platform, Bus Companies can reduce idle time, lower administrative burdens, and scale their business efficiently with the help of automation and a user-friendly interface.

Subscription Requirement: Access to the SaaS Platform features is provided to Bus Companies on a subscription basis. Bus Companies must register an account and select a subscription plan (e.g., monthly or annual, as offered). Subscription Fees are payable as described in the Payments section below, and timely payment is a condition of continued access to the Platform’s B2B features.

Bus Company as Independent Operator: It is understood that when a Bus Company uses the Platform, they remain an independent business entity. Bus Companies are not employees, workers, or agents of Quotabus; rather, they are clients/licensees of the Platform for software services. Nothing in these Terms establishes a partnership, joint venture, or employment relationship between Quotabus and any Bus Company. Bus Companies are solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining any licenses, permits, insurance, and qualifications required by law to operate transportation services. When Bus Companies provide transportation to Customers (through a Booking made on the Platform), they are doing so in their capacity as independent carriers, not as subcontractors or representatives of Quotabus.

3.2 Group Transportation Booking Services for Customers (B2C)

Quotabus also operates as a licensed travel agency and offers an online service for Customers to book group transportation (charter buses, minibuses, coaches, etc.) for trips, excursions, events, or other needs. In this B2C model, All transportation services are performed by independent third-party bus operators, not by Quotabus itself.

Key aspects of the Booking Services for Customers include:

• Online Requests and Quotes: Customers (e.g., companies, schools, tour groups, event organizers, or individuals organizing group travel) can submit trip details on the Platform (dates, pickup and drop-off locations, number of passengers, any special requirements, etc.) to request a quote for transportation. Quotabus may provide an online form for this purpose (directly on the Quotabus site or via an embedded form on a Bus Company’s site).
• Sourcing a Transport Provider: Upon receiving a Customer’s request, Quotabus will work to match the Customer with a suitable Bus Operator. This may involve forwarding the request to one or more Bus Companies that are part of the Quotabus network, or otherwise identifying licensed carriers that can perform the service.
• Quote Presentation: The Customer will receive a quotation for the trip detailing the proposed itinerary, the total price, and any terms specific to that trip. Prices are quoted in Euro (€) and include applicable VAT (Value Added Tax) unless stated otherwise. The quote will also indicate what is included in the price (for example, vehicle with driver, fuel, standard insurance) and any exclusions (such as road tolls, parking fees, driver’s overnight accommodation if required, or other costs not covered). Unless explicitly stated, quoted prices generally include the chartered vehicle with a professional driver, fuel for the planned route, and standard liability insurance. Additional costs (e.g., tolls, parking, extra stops, changes in itinerary, waiting time, or damages caused by passengers) may be charged to the Customer as outlined in the booking confirmation.
• Booking Confirmation: When a Customer accepts a quote, Quotabus will confirm the booking and provide a Booking Confirmation document or email that serves as the contract for the transport service. This confirmation will include details of the Bus Operator assigned to the trip (company name, contact information), key trip details (dates/times, pickup/drop-off addresses, itinerary, number of passengers, vehicle type), the total price and payment schedule, and reference to these Terms.
• Payment Handling: Quotabus will invoice the Customer for the transport service. Customers will make payments to Quotabus (not directly to the Bus Operator) via the available payment methods (e.g., credit card, bank transfer, etc.). All Customer payments are processed through secure third-party payment processors (such as bank transfers or Stripe) and are subject to those processors’ terms and privacy policies.
• Execution of Transport Service: On the day of the trip, the assigned Bus Operator (and its driver) will carry out the transportation as agreed. Quotabus itself does not operate any vehicles or provide transportation — it does not own buses or employ drivers. The Bus Operator is solely responsible for operating the vehicle safely, punctually, and in compliance with all regulations. The Bus Operator bears full liability for the execution of the transport service, including but not limited to driver’s conduct, vehicle condition and safety, route execution, and adherence to traffic laws and safety standards. Quotabus will assist with communication or minor coordination issues before and during the trip as needed (e.g., if a Customer has difficulty reaching the driver at pickup, Quotabus may help relay messages), but Quotabus is not the carrier performing the trip.

Licensed Travel Agency: Quotabus is a licensed travel agency under Italian law and complies with all applicable regulations and maintains any required insurance or bonding (for example, to protect customer payments in case of insolvency, as required by law). These Terms incorporate and uphold the protections of the Italian Consumer Code and other relevant legislation for consumers availing of travel services. For instance, the actual carrier holds liability for transport execution (per the principles of the Italian Civil Code and tourism laws). Nothing in these Terms affects the rights that consumers have under mandatory laws.

Group Traveler Experience: From the Customer’s perspective, Quotabus strives to provide a fast and transparent booking experience for group transportation. Our Platform is designed to make chartering a bus or coach easier, more accessible, and more user-friendly, whether it’s for a corporate event, a school field trip, a tour group, a wedding shuttle, or any other group travel need. We emphasize clarity in pricing (all costs explained up front), reliable matching with vetted operators, and proactive communication.

Travel Itineraries and Times: Any itineraries or time schedules provided as part of a Booking (for example, estimated pickup and drop-off times, travel durations, time at destinations, etc.) are estimates for planning purposes. Actual travel times may vary due to factors such as traffic, weather, road conditions, or other unexpected delays. Customers and passengers should allow reasonable flexibility in schedules. Delays: If the bus or driver encounters unforeseen delays (e.g., heavy traffic, road closures, weather issues, etc.), such delays will not be considered a breach of contract, and in general no refund or compensation is granted for minor delays beyond the operator’s control. We ask for your understanding that punctuality, while important, can be affected by factors outside the Bus Operator’s control; exceptional events (like strikes, extreme weather, etc.) must be accepted by the Customer as a possibility.

Quotabus’s Role and Limitation: In providing the Booking Services, Quotabus does not assume the role of a transport carrier itself, nor does it guarantee the performance of the Bus Operators beyond the duties explicitly assumed in these Terms. We carefully select and collaborate with licensed and insured Bus Companies, but ultimate responsibility for operating the transport lies with the Bus Operator (see Section 7 on Responsibilities). Quotabus will provide reasonable assistance to Customers in resolving any issues or claims regarding a Bus Operator’s performance if such issues are brought to our attention promptly (for example, if something goes wrong during a trip, we may help mediate with the operator). However, any claims related to the actual transportation (e.g., accidents, injuries, significant service failures) are to be directed to the Bus Operator, who by law and contract is the party responsible for the carriage of passengers.

4. Account Registration and Eligibility

Use of the Platform’s core features may require creating a user account and agreeing to these Terms. There are two primary types of accounts:

• Bus Company Accounts: A Bus Company (or its authorized representative) must register for a company account to access the SaaS Platform services. During registration, the Bus Company will provide information such as company name, registered address, VAT number (if applicable), contact person name, email, phone number, and other relevant details about the business (e.g., fleet size, operating areas). The person registering must have authority to bind the Bus Company to these Terms. Bus Companies must ensure their account information remains accurate and up-to-date, especially contact and billing information.
• Customer Accounts: A Customer may create an individual or organizational account to manage their transport requests and bookings. A Customer account will typically require a name, email, phone number, and password. In some cases (such as one-off quick quotes), a formal account may not be required and a Customer can receive a quote by email; however, to confirm bookings and access full functionality (like viewing booking details, downloading invoices, etc.), an account is recommended. For corporate or institutional Customers, an account may be tied to the organization with multiple authorized users.

Account Security: Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials (login email and password). You must not share your password with anyone not authorized to act on your behalf. If you suspect any unauthorized access to your account, you must notify Quotabus immediately. We are not liable for any loss or damage resulting from unauthorized access due to your failure to secure your account credentials.

User Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old and capable of entering into legally binding contracts to use the Platform. By creating an account, you represent that you (if an individual) are of legal adult age in your jurisdiction. If you create an account on behalf of a company or other entity, you represent that you have the legal authority to bind that entity to these Terms. Users must provide true, current, and complete information during registration and keep it updated. Misrepresenting your identity or affiliating a wrong entity is a violation of these Terms and may lead to suspension or termination of your account.

Compliance with Laws: Whether you are a Bus Company or a Customer, you agree to use the Platform only in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. For Bus Companies, this includes all laws related to operating commercial transportation (traffic laws, safety regulations, labor laws for drivers’ working hours, etc.), as well as data protection laws when handling personal data of customers. For Customers, this includes obligations as a chartering party (for example, ensuring your trip itinerary is legal and feasible, obtaining any special permits if needed for certain destinations, not requesting services for unlawful activities, etc.). More details on specific compliance responsibilities are outlined in Section 7 (User Responsibilities and Conduct).

Account Administration (Bus Companies): If a Bus Company account is used by multiple employees, the Bus Company must designate an account administrator who has the right to grant or revoke access to other team members. The Bus Company is responsible for all actions taken under its account credentials. If an employee leaves the company or should no longer have access, the Bus Company should promptly revoke their access. Quotabus is not responsible for managing internal permissions within the Bus Company’s team beyond providing the technical capability.

One Account Rule: Each Bus Company should generally maintain only one master account (with the option to have sub-users) unless otherwise approved by Quotabus. Customers likewise should not maintain duplicate accounts. We reserve the right to merge or deactivate duplicate accounts.

Termination of Account: Account holders may terminate their account at any time as described in Section 12 (Termination). Note that if a Bus Company terminates its account, its subscription will end (subject to any notice period or commitment), and it will no longer have access to the platform or data (so data export before termination is recommended). If a Customer account is terminated, any confirmed bookings would still be honored or need to be canceled according to these Terms.

By registering an account, you confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements and will abide by these Terms throughout your use of the Platform.

5. Booking Process and Payment Terms (Customers)

This section applies to Customers (travelers or chartering clients) using the Platform to request and book group transportation (B2C services).

5.1 Requesting Quotes and Making Bookings

Requesting a Quote: To initiate a Booking, a Customer submits a transportation request. This can be done by filling out the request form on the Quotabus website or an embedded booking form on a Bus Company’s site (which feeds into the Quotabus Platform). You will need to provide information such as: date(s) of service, pickup time and location, drop-off location, any intermediate stops or itinerary details, number of passengers, type of vehicle required (if known), and any special requirements (e.g., wheelchair access, trailer for luggage, etc.). The more accurate and detailed the request, the more precisely the Bus Company can quote. Submitting a quote request does not obligate you to purchase, it is just an inquiry.

Receiving a Quote: After submitting your request, Quotabus (through the Platform and its Bus Company network) will provide you with a quote and will identify an available Bus Operator. The quote will typically be sent via email or made available in your Customer account dashboard. It will detail the proposed service and the price. Price Validity: Quotes are generally valid for a limited time (which will be indicated, e.g., “This quote is valid for 7 days”) because availability of vehicles and pricing can change. After the validity period, the quote may expire or need reconfirmation.

Reviewing Quote Details: It is the Customer’s responsibility to carefully review the quote details. Pay attention to what is included in the price and what is not, as well as any assumptions (for example, if you requested a return trip but didn’t specify the return time, the quote might assume a certain number of hours of waiting time; if that changes, the price could change). If anything is unclear or if you need to make changes, you should contact Quotabus before accepting the quote. We encourage Customers to ask questions – Quotabus is here to facilitate and clarify any details before you commit.

Acceptance and Booking Confirmation: If you are satisfied with the quote, you will accept it (typically by clicking a confirmation link or button, or by signing a digital agreement, depending on the process, and possibly paying a deposit – see Payments below). Once accepted, Quotabus will issue a Booking Confirmation that formalizes the agreement. At this point, a binding contract is established for the transport service, governed by these Terms and the specifics of the confirmation. The Booking Confirmation will include a unique booking reference number which should be used in any correspondence.

Changes After Booking: If the Customer needs to make changes to a confirmed booking (e.g., change of date, time, itinerary, number of passengers), you should contact Quotabus as soon as possible. Minor changes may be accommodated subject to Bus Operator’s availability and may result in a price adjustment (for example, adding an extra stop could increase mileage and cost). Significant changes (like a different date or destination) might be treated as a cancellation of the original booking (with potential fees) and creation of a new booking. Quotabus will inform you of any change in cost or if the change cannot be accommodated. All changes should be documented (we will send an updated confirmation or amendment via email).

Execution of Service: On the day of service, ensure that your group is ready at the agreed pickup location at the scheduled time. You will typically receive contact information for the driver or the Bus Operator shortly before the trip (usually the day before or same day). As a note, sometimes for privacy reasons not all driver contact details can be shared far in advance; in such cases, a general dispatch number for the Bus Operator is provided until the driver is assigned. The Customer (or group leader) should have a charged mobile phone at the pickup in case the driver needs to reach you. If you have any trouble locating the vehicle or driver at pickup, you can call the Bus Operator’s dispatch or Quotabus for assistance.

5.2 Pricing and Payment Terms (Customers)

Pricing: All prices for bookings are quoted inEuros (€) and include VAT (sales tax) where applicable, unless explicitly stated otherwise. If a quote or confirmation states a price "+ VAT", then VAT will be added at the applicable rate according to the law. In most cases, for passenger transport in Italy, VAT is 10% (as of the current law) but this could change or differ if international transport is involved. Quotabus will always clearly indicate the tax status of the price. The confirmed price is generally a fixed total price for the described service. However, certain variable elements like overtime (if you keep the bus longer than agreed), significant route deviations, or extra services requested on the day may incur additional charges.

Payment Schedule: Depending on the timing of the booking relative to the trip date and the policies in place, the payment might be required in full at booking or split into deposit and balance. For example, for bookings made well in advance, Quotabus may require a deposit (e.g. 20-30%) at confirmation and the remaining balance a certain number of days before the trip. The specific schedule will be communicated in the quote or booking process. For last-minute bookings (shortly before the service date), full payment may be required immediately to confirm.

Payment Methods: Quotabus supports various payment methods for Customers, which may include credit/debit cards, bank transfers, or other electronic payment solutions. Online card payments are processed by our payment partner (e.g., Stripe) in a secure manner; Quotabus does not store your full card details. If paying by bank transfer, you must use the booking reference and ensure the funds arrive by the due date. Any fees charged by your bank for the transfer are your responsibility.

Invoicing: Quotabus will issue an invoice to the Customer for each booking, reflecting the agreed price and any taxes. Invoices will be sent electronically (to the email on file or accessible in the account). The Customer on the invoice will be the entity or person who made the booking. If you need the invoice made out to a company name (for business travel, etc.), you must provide those details during booking (including VAT number if within EU).

Late or Non-Payment: Timely payment is essential. If a required payment (deposit or balance) is not made by the deadline stated, Quotabus reserves the right to treat the booking as canceled by the Customer, potentially releasing the vehicle and subjecting the Customer to cancellation fees as per the policy below. We will attempt to contact you before taking such action, but ultimately it is your responsibility to pay on time. Travel services are usually scheduled in advance, and non-payment can jeopardize the reservation with the Bus Operator.

Promotions and Discounts: From time to time, Quotabus may offer promotional codes or discounts. These are subject to their specific terms and may be applied only in accordance with those terms (for example, a first-time customer discount code, or a seasonal promotion). Only one promotion can typically be applied per booking, and promotions cannot be exchanged for cash. If a promotion is found to be abused or obtained fraudulently, Quotabus can reject the discount and require full payment.

Financial Protection: As a licensed travel agency, Quotabus adheres to any financial protection rules applicable under Italian law. This might include maintaining a guarantee fund or insurance that protects consumer payments in case of our insolvency. While we have no reason to believe such issues will arise, this compliance is part of ensuring your payments are safe. For instance, Quotabus may be part of a guarantee fund under the Italian Tourism Code or maintain a surety policy for customer monies. Details can be provided on request.

5.3 Customer Cancellations and Refunds

We understand that plans can change. The following outlines our Cancellation Policy for Customers, i.e., what happens if you need to cancel a confirmed booking. This policy is designed to be fair while accounting for costs the Bus Operator incurs when reserving a vehicle and possibly turning down other work for that date.

• Cancellation by Customer: If you decide to cancel a booking, you must notify Quotabus as soon as possible in writing (email is acceptable, and your cancellation is effective from the time we acknowledge receipt). The cancellation fees depend on how far in advance of the scheduled service date the cancellation occurs. Unless a different cancellation schedule was specified in your particular quote/contract (which will take precedence if so), the following standard fees apply:
• More than 21 days before the service date: You pay no cancellation fee (we will refund 100% of the price).
• Between 21 days and 7 days before the service: You pay a 50% cancellation fee (we refund 50%).
• Between 7 days and 3 days (72 hours) before the service: You pay a 75% cancellation fee (we refund 25%).
• Less than 72 hours before the service (or no-show at time of pickup): You pay 100% of the total price - no refund is provided.

(The above time frames are counted back from the agreed start time of the service on the first day of service. For multi-day services, the start time of day one is the reference.)

These fees are to cover the Bus Operator's loss of business and costs. If you have only paid a deposit at the time of cancellation, you may still owe an additional amount to reach the required cancellation fee percentage - we will invoice you if needed. If you had paid in full, we will refund you the balance after deducting the fee. Refunds will be processed using the same payment method you provided (or via bank transfer if original method cannot be refunded). Please allow a reasonable time for the refund to appear, as card refunds can take 5-10 business days and bank transfers a few days depending on banks.

• Partial Cancellations: If your booking involves multiple vehicles or multiple days and you cancel only a portion (for example, canceling one of the buses or one of the days), the cancellation fee will generally be pro-rated to that portion. Quotabus will confirm the charges in such cases.
• Cancellation by Bus Operator: In the unlikely event that the Bus Operator (or Quotabus on their behalf) must cancel your booking (for instance, due to a bus breaking down without replacement, driver illness with no replacement, or other extraordinary circumstance preventing them from performing the service), we will inform you as soon as possible. Quotabus will attempt to find an alternative equivalent bus/driver to fulfill the booking at no extra cost to you. If we cannot find a suitable alternative, you will receive a full refund of any amount you have paid for that booking (if the trip cannot be carried out at all). This refund is the maximum liability in a cancellation by the operator - Quotabus will not be additionally liable for any indirect costs or losses arising from the cancellation, such as your losses for a missed event (we recommend having travel insurance for such scenarios if the potential loss is large). We will, however, do our utmost to prevent such cancellations and to mitigate any inconvenience if they occur. (Also see Force Majeure in Section 13, as some cancellations may be due to events beyond anyone's control.)
• Changes Considered as Cancellations: If you request a significant change (e.g., new date or destination) and the Bus Operator cannot accommodate it and must release the vehicle, this may be treated as a cancellation by you. We will clarify any fees in that case (it often aligns with the same schedule above, based on when the change request is made).
• No-Show: If the Customer (and passengers) fail to show up at the agreed pickup place and time without prior notice, this will be treated as a last-minute cancellation/no-show and 100% of the price is due. The driver will wait for a reasonable time (usually up to 1 hour unless a shorter window is specified in the contract or itinerary due to schedule constraints) and attempt to contact the Customer. After that, the driver may be released and the trip considered canceled with no refund.

We aim to be understanding in case of genuine emergencies or unexpected situations that lead to a cancellation. If you believe there are extenuating circumstances (for example, a government travel restriction, natural disaster, or serious illness with proof), please inform us. We will adhere to applicable consumer protection laws regarding contract termination in extraordinary circumstances. For instance, under Italian law, a consumer might have rights to terminate without penalty in certain force majeure scenarios or if there’s a significant alteration in the agreed service not caused by the consumer (these are typically relevant to package travel but we will consider analogous principles). Each case will be reviewed on its facts.

5.4 Booking Changes and Customer Responsibilities for Travel

Customer Substitutions: If you, as the Customer, cannot travel and want to substitute another person or group (like if a company changes the coordinator or a school swaps classes), you can do so, but you should inform us to update contact details. There’s generally no penalty for changing the names of passengers or the group leader, as long as the service itself is the same.

During the Trip: If during the trip you request additional services or extensions (e.g., asking the driver to continue beyond the agreed return time, or make extra unplanned stops), you should arrange payment for any resulting extra with Quotabus as instructed. The driver will typically have them noted and Quotabus will bill you after or charge your card on file with notice.

Customer Conduct: The Customer (group organizer) is responsible for the conduct of all passengers in their party (see Section 7.2 for passenger behavior obligations). If a trip is cut short or modified due to passenger misbehavior (for instance, if authorities intervene or the driver feels safety is compromised by passengers), it may not entitle the Customer to any refund - it would be considered a self-induced issue. We expect Customers to ensure their groups adhere to basic rules (no smoking on the bus unless the operator explicitly allows it, no excessive disorderly conduct, comply with any reasonable instructions from the driver, etc.). If a cleaning fee or damage repair is needed due to passenger conduct, the Customer will be liable for those costs.

Travel Documentation: If the trip crosses international borders, Customers must ensure that all passengers have the necessary travel documents (valid passports, visas if needed). Quotabus is not responsible for delays or issues at borders or checkpoints due to passengers lacking proper documents. If a passenger is denied boarding or the group is delayed due to document issues, it is not a ground for refund (the service was provided as available). Also, if special permits are needed for certain routes (like entering restricted city centers, ZTL zones in Italian cities, etc.), Quotabus or the Bus Operator will typically arrange those and include any fees in the quote. If you plan a route requiring special permission (like a convoy or police escort for large events), that should be disclosed in advance.

Complaints Procedure: If you encounter any problems during your trip (vehicle issues, driver issues, service not as expected, etc.), please inform Quotabus or the Bus Operator immediately (during the trip if possible). Prompt notification allows us to address the issue in real-time (e.g., sending a replacement vehicle in case of breakdown, or resolving a misunderstanding). We will make reasonable efforts to resolve the issue on the spot. If not resolved to your satisfaction, you can file a formal complaint after the trip (contact details are in Section 14). We will investigate and respond, and if appropriate, work out compensation or remedy in line with our and the operator’s obligations.

By using the Booking Services, Customers acknowledge and agree to the above terms regarding quotes, bookings, payments, changes, and cancellations. These measures allow us to provide a reliable service while fairly compensating the independent Bus Operators who allocate resources for your trip.

6. Subscription and Payment Terms (Bus Companies)

This section applies to Bus Companies using the SaaS Platform services (B2B model).

6.1 Subscription Plans and Fees

Bus Companies must enroll in a Subscription plan to access the full features of the Quotabus Platform. Subscription plans vary based on features or usage limits (e.g., basic plan with user accounts/quotes per month vs. premium plan with more features). The specifics of available plans and pricing are provided on the Platform or in a separate order form or contract.

Subscription Fee: The Subscription fee (also called license fee or service fee) is a recurring charge for using the Platform. Fees can be charged monthly or annually in advance, depending on the chosen plan. All Subscription fees are quoted in Euro and are exclusive of VAT unless stated otherwise. If VAT or other taxes apply, they will be added at the applicable rate. Specifically, for Italian Bus Companies, VAT at 22% will be added. If a Bus Company is outside Italy but within the EU and provides a valid VAT number, the charge will apply according to EU law.

Billing Cycle: The billing cycle begins on the date the Subscription is activated. For monthly plans, billing recurs every month on that calendar date (or the last day of the month if the date doesn't exist in a shorter month). For annual plans, billing recurs on the anniversary of the start date. Payment can be made by charging a credit card on file or by sending an invoice for bank payment, as per the agreed payment method. Timely payment is required to maintain access.

Auto-Renewal: Subscriptions generally auto-renew at the end of each term (month or year) to ensure uninterrupted service. You will be charged automatically for the next period unless you cancel before the renewal date. Notice for annual plans will be provided at least 30 days prior, but monthly plans may not receive a monthly notice. You agree that recurring charges can be processed without separate authorization for each period, under the authorization given at sign-up.

Upgrades and Downgrades: If multiple plan tiers are offered, you may upgrade or downgrade your Subscription. Upgrading to a higher tier typically takes effect immediately or from the start of the next billing period (with a pro-rated charge if upgrading mid-period). Downgrades to a lower tier usually take effect at the next renewal to avoid feature disruption (or immediately if agreed, but may result in loss of access to some features). Any credits or additional fees due to plan changes will be calculated pro rata where applicable. It is your responsibility to assess if a different plan suits your needs, as downgrading might involve feature or limit reductions.

Free Trials and Promotions: We may offer a free trial period or introductory offer for Bus Companies. Such trials are subject to these Terms as well. Only one free trial per company is permitted unless otherwise stated.

6.2 Payment Methods and Invoicing (B2B)

Payment Methods: We may accept common payment methods for Subscription fees, including credit cards and SEPA direct debits for automated recurring payments, or wire transfer for invoiced payments. For automated payments, you must provide valid payment details and authorize Quotabus (or our payment processor) to charge the Subscription fees. For manual invoicing, payment terms are typically 14 days net unless otherwise specified.

Late Payment: If a Subscription payment is past due, we reserve the right to suspend the Bus Company’s access to the Platform (after at least one reminder notice). The Bus Company is responsible for any bank fees or charges due to declined payments, and for any currency conversion costs if paying from a non-euro account. Late payments may incur interest at the statutory interest rate for late payments in commercial transactions (as per Italian Legislative Decree 231/2002), or as otherwise provided by law, from the due date until paid. We would prefer to work with you to avoid suspension, but please communicate if there are any issues with payment so we can find a solution.

No Refunds on Subscription (Standard): Unless otherwise required by law or explicitly stated, Subscription fees are non-refundable. If you cancel in the middle of a period, you will not typically receive a refund for the unused portion (the service will remain active until the end of the paid term). The rationale is that the SaaS service is provided continuously and resources are allocated. However, we may consider refunds on a case-by-case basis for annual plans canceled early under special circumstances, but it’s not guaranteed. Any such accommodation would be goodwill.

Taxes: Bus Company is responsible for any taxes or duties (like withholding taxes) imposed by jurisdictions outside of Italy on the Subscription fees. If any withholding tax is required on payments to us, you may deduct it as required by law, but you must gross-up the payment such that we receive the full amount we would have gotten in absence of the tax. For clarity, our listed prices do not include any withholding; we expect full net payment.

Adjustments and Errors: If you believe there is an error in billing (e.g., you were overcharged or charged when you shouldn’t have been), you must notify us in writing within 30 days of the invoice or charge. We will investigate and, if an error is found, correct it by issuing a refund or crediting it to the next period.

6.3 Term and Termination of Subscription

Term: Your Subscription is active for the agreed term (monthly, yearly, or other term agreed). It will renew as described above.

Cancellation by Bus Company: You can elect not to renew (cancel) the Subscription by giving notice via the account settings or by contacting us. For monthly plans, you can cancel any time before the next renewal to stop future charges. For annual plans, if you cancel mid-term, the cancellation will take effect at the end of the current annual period (you will not be refunded for the remaining months except as noted above, but you will retain access until then). If you do not wish to auto-renew, inform us at least 15 days before the renewal date for annual plans (for monthly, at least 2 days prior to next month). Upon cancellation, we may offer to convert your account to a limited free version (if available) or disable access entirely at end of term.

Termination or Suspension by Quotabus: We reserve the right to terminate or suspend a Bus Company’s account (and thus its Subscription) for breach of these Terms. Grounds for such termination/suspension include, but are not limited to:

• Failure to pay Subscription fees within a reasonable time after due (e.g., more than 30 days overdue).
• Serious violation of Platform rules or misuse (e.g., using the Platform for unlawful activity, or attempts to scrape or reproduce software, see Section 7 on Conduct).
• The Bus Company providing false information during signup or anytime (e.g., not actually having a valid bus operator license when claimed).
• Complaints of misconduct or unlawful behavior in the Bus Company's provision of transport services that could reflect poorly on or create liability for Quotabus. For example, if a Bus Company consistently violates safety regulations or is involved in fraud with customers, Quotabus may sever the relationship.

In most cases, we will issue a warning and try to resolve issues before termination, except in severe cases. Suspension means temporary disabling of access (which might be lifted if issue is resolved), whereas termination means permanent end of service.

Effect of Termination: Upon termination or expiration of your Subscription, you will lose access to the Platform's restricted features. You should export any data you need prior to termination. We will offer assistance for data export (quotes, contacts, etc.) upon request within a reasonable time after termination. We will delete or anonymize personal data associated with your account in accordance with our data retention policies and Privacy Policy, subject to any need to retain data for legal reasons (e.g., records of transactions or communications as required by law).

Any open quotes or pending bookings at the time of termination: If the Bus Company is involved in active Customer bookings through Quotabus at termination, we will handle those on a case-by-case basis. The Bus Company would still be obligated to honor any bookings they confirmed unless released by the Customer or us.

Surviving Provisions: Even after a Subscription ends, certain provisions of these Terms survive with respect to the past usage – for example, indemnification obligations, limitation of liability for events that occurred, confidentiality (for any sensitive info accessed), and governing law/jurisdiction clauses.

By subscribing to the Quotabus Platform, Bus Companies agree to these Subscription terms and commit to timely payment and lawful use of the Platform.

7. User Responsibilities and Conduct

All users of Quotabus (both Bus Companies and Customers) have certain obligations to ensure a safe, lawful, and fair use of the Platform and services. This section outlines what we expect from users.

7.1 Bus Company Responsibilities (Operators)

If you are a Bus Company or operator using our Platform and/or providing transportation for bookings, you agree to the following responsibilities:

• Legality and Licensing: You confirm that you hold all necessary licenses, permits, and authorizations to operate as a passenger transport provider in the areas you serve. This includes holding a valid bus operating license, appropriate driver licenses for your drivers, and compliance with any local authority requirements. You also confirm that your drivers have the legally required qualifications and training. You will comply with all applicable laws and regulations related to transportation services, including but not limited to: road safety, vehicle maintenance, driver working hours and rest (e.g., EU drivers' hour regulations), passenger rights regulations (if applicable), and traffic rules.
• Insurance: You must carry adequate insurance coverage for your operations, at least meeting the minimum legal requirements (e.g., motor vehicle liability insurance for passengers and third-party damage). We strongly recommend carrying higher than minimum coverage and appropriate public liability insurance for passenger claims, as well as insurance for damage to luggage or property if you offer that. Upon request, you should provide Quotabus with proof of insurance. You agree that in any booking arranged via Quotabus, your insurance will be primary in responding to any incidents during the trip.
• Service Quality and Execution: You commit to delivering services as agreed in bookings, including providing vehicles of the specified standard (capacity, features, cleanliness), licensed and punctual drivers, and completing itineraries (barring force majeure). You are solely responsible for operational performance, passenger safety, adherence to traffic laws, and meeting timelines. If issues arise (e.g., vehicle breakdown or driver illness), you must promptly notify Quotabus and arrange equivalent replacements to minimize disruption. For mechanical failures, a replacement vehicle should be dispatched as soon as possible.
• Compliance and Conduct of Staff: Drivers and other staff interacting with Customers must behave professionally and courteously, following specific service guidelines (e.g., meeting customers at designated spots, assisting with luggage). There is absolutely zero tolerance for any illicit or unsafe behavior by drivers, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, using a mobile phone dangerously while driving, or any form of harassment or discrimination towards passengers. You are responsible for the actions of your employees or subcontracted drivers.
• Accidents and Incidents: In the event of any accident, breakdown, or significant incident during a trip, you must inform Quotabus as soon as safe and practicable and take appropriate emergency measures (e.g., calling police/ambulance). You are responsible for handling insurance claims for injuries or property damage arising from your service provision. You and the Customer agree to indemnify Quotabus for any claims (including passenger injury or property damage) arising from your operations, except to the extent caused by Quotabus's own negligence (see Section 11 on Indemnification).
• Data Accuracy: All information provided in the Platform (e.g., Bus Company profile, fleet details, insurance details, quote responses) must be truthful and up-to-date. Misrepresenting capabilities or offering quotes that cannot be honored is considered a serious breach. If vehicle availability changes after a booking is confirmed (e.g., a specific bus goes out of service), you must provide an equivalent or better replacement to fulfill the booking at no extra cost to the Customer.
• Use of Platform (Prohibited Uses): As a Bus Company user of the SaaS Platform, you agree not to misuse the software. This includes not attempting to reverse engineer, copy, or create derivative services from the software; not using the system to send spam or unauthorized marketing to customers; and not introducing any malware or harmful code. You must respect any API or integration rules if we provide them. Also, you should not circumvent the Platform for bookings introduced via Quotabus – for example, if a Customer comes through Quotabus, you should not try to take that transaction off-platform to avoid fees or for any other reason during the term of your Subscription. (We don't impose a strict non-circumvention beyond active engagements, but doing so to our detriment could result in account termination.)
• Embedded Form Use: If you use the Quotabus embedded booking/request form on your website, you must not modify it in a way not authorized by us. That form should clearly show any required legal notices (for example, that Quotabus's Terms and Privacy apply, if that's the case). You should also have a privacy notice on your site indicating that requests are handled through Quotabus.
• Cooperation: You will reasonably cooperate with Quotabus in the event of any Customer complaint, dispute, or legal inquiry. For example, providing logs or evidence if a customer alleges the driver was late or anything happened, so we can address the issue. Cooperation also extends to GDPR compliance (if a customer asks for their data or deletion, etc., and you hold some of their data from the Platform, you should work with us to fulfill obligations).

By upholding these responsibilities, Bus Companies help ensure high-quality service and maintain trust on the Platform. Failure to meet these obligations may result in removal from the platform and/or liability for damages or losses caused.

7.2 Customer Responsibilities (Group Organizers and Travelers)

If you are a Customer using Quotabus to book transport, you also have important responsibilities to ensure a smooth and safe experience:

• Provide Accurate Information: When requesting a quote or making a booking, you must provide truthful and accurate information about your trip and group. This includes: correct dates and times, addresses, number of passengers, any special needs (e.g., passengers with disabilities requiring accommodation like wheelchair access), and plans to carry unusual luggage (e.g., sports equipment, musical instruments). Misrepresenting trip details (e.g., stating 20 passengers when 50 actually show up) can lead to the operator refusing service or requiring additional payment. This will be considered a breach of these Terms.
• Timeliness: You and your group need to be on time for departures. The driver is expected to be punctual and will attempt to contact you if there's an issue. However, if the group is excessively late in assembling (beyond a reasonable grace period), the driver may have to leave, or the itinerary might be cut short. Drivers have regulated working hours and cannot exceed legal driving time. A significant delay caused by you could force early termination of service for safety/legal reasons. In such cases, you would not be entitled to a refund.
• Respectful Behavior: Passengers are expected to behave respectfully towards the driver, vehicle, and others. Abusive language, harassment, and failure to follow the driver's instructions (e.g., wearing seatbelts, keeping noise down) are prohibited. Physical or verbal abuse toward the driver or others is grounds for immediate termination of service, with no refund and potential liability for damages or cleaning fees.
• No Smoking & Controlled Substances: S In general, smoking is not allowed on board charter vehicles (and certainly not on any where it’s against the law). Please respect this rule, as smoke can damage interiors and bother others. Similarly, possession or use of illegal drugs on the bus is strictly forbidden and will likely cause the driver to stop the trip and involve authorities. Alcohol consumption on board is at the discretion of the Bus Operator and subject to local laws (some jurisdictions allow it in charter vehicles, others don’t). If allowed, it should be in moderation and not lead to unruly behavior. If your group is underage (e.g., school children), obviously no alcohol or tobacco onboard.
• Safety and Damage: During the ride, remain seated when the bus is moving (or use seatbelts if provided and required). Avoid distracting the driver with unnecessary conversation or loud activity. Do not tamper with any safety devices or emergency exits except in an emergency. If any passenger causes damage to the vehicle (beyond normal wear-and-tear), the Customer will be responsible for the cost of cleaning, repair, or replacement. For example, if someone spills food/drink causing a deep clean requirement, or a passenger breaks a seat or window due to negligence or rowdiness, the Bus Operator will document the damage and Quotabus will facilitate billing the Customer for it. By agreeing to these Terms, you agree to pay for such damage.
• Compliance with Laws: You and your group must not carry any illicit or dangerous items on the bus. Weapons, hazardous materials, or any contraband are strictly prohibited. If you’re unsure about certain items (e.g., sporting equipment that might need special storage), ask us. You should also respect local laws at destinations (for instance, if a law requires masks on public transport due to health regulations, you should comply if asked, even though it’s a charter; or if noise curfews exist in certain areas at night, the group should respect that when getting off the bus). If authorities fine the Bus Operator due to passenger behavior (like a fine for littering by a passenger, or for disorderly conduct), the Bus Operator may seek to pass that fine to the Customer - and you agree that you may be held responsible for such costs.
• Itinerary Constraints: Understand that drivers must adhere to legal driving time limits. If your itinerary is very tight or unrealistic, the driver may have to adjust (for instance, take mandatory rest stops). The Customer must accept reasonable modifications for safety/legal compliance. If you demand something that would violate the law (e.g., asking the driver to speed or skip mandatory break), the driver will refuse and you must respect that.
• Contact and Communication: The person in charge of the group should have a working mobile phone on the day of travel and share that contact with Quotabus and/or the Bus Operator. This is crucial for last-minute coordination. You should also provide a backup contact if possible. Keep an eye on your phone/email prior to the trip in case there are updates (like slight schedule updates or driver contact info). If we or the Bus Operator cannot reach you for essential updates, we are not responsible for any issue that arises from missed communication.
• Post-Trip Issues: If you left behind any items on the vehicle, contact us or the Bus Operator as soon as possible. We’ll attempt to help retrieve lost items, but cannot guarantee it. Bus Operators are not liable for loss of personal belongings during the trip; you must take care of your own possessions (the vehicles usually do not lock during stops, etc., so avoid leaving valuables on board unattended). This is a general disclaimer: any personal items are carried at the owner’s risk. However, if you believe the operator’s negligence caused a loss (e.g., driver failed to close the baggage compartment properly and luggage fell out), let us know and we will address it with the Bus Operator.

Group Leader Acknowledgment: If you are booking on behalf of a group, it is your responsibility to convey relevant rules to the group members (for example, no smoking, being on time, etc.). It is also your duty to ensure minors are supervised. Quotabus and the Bus Operator are not responsible for chaperoning or controlling unruly group members - that's on you as the group organizer.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, Customers help ensure a safe and pleasant journey for everyone involved.

7.3 General Conduct on the Platform (All Users)

In addition to the role-specific points above, all users must use the Quotabus Platform itself in a lawful and respectful manner:

• No Fraud or Unlawful Activity: You may not use the Platform for fraudulent activities (e.g., making fake bookings, using stolen credit cards, misusing promotional offers) or any other unlawful conduct. If such activity is detected, Quotabus reserves the right to report it to law enforcement and pursue legal action.
• No Unauthorized Access: You must not attempt to gain unauthorized access to any portion of the Platform, accounts, or systems. This includes hacking, password "mining," or any other illegitimate means of accessing data. It also prohibits using any automated system (such as bots or scrapers) to access or use the Platform in violation of robots.txt instructions or without explicit permission.
• No Platform Abuse: You must not do anything that could compromise the stability or security of our Platform. For example, deliberately introducing viruses, launching DoS attacks, or using the Platform in a way that imposes an unreasonable load on our infrastructure is prohibited. We employ security measures and any attempt to bypass or undermine them may lead to immediate termination of access and possible legal consequences.
• Content Standards: If the Platform allows you to input or upload any content (such as posting a profile picture, or Bus Companies adding descriptive text, or Customers giving feedback/reviews), you must ensure that such content is accurate (if stating facts) and appropriate. No content should be defamatory, obscene, discriminatory, or infringe on any intellectual property or privacy rights of others. We reserve the right to remove or edit user-provided content that violates these standards or that we find inappropriate or unrelated to the purpose of the Platform.
• Confidentiality: Bus Companies might gain access to certain information through the Platform (like customer contact info for bookings, or perhaps benchmarks). You must treat as confidential any sensitive information not generally known that you learn through the Platform. For example, Bus Companies should not share customer data obtained (except as needed to perform the service) without permission. Similarly, Customers should respect confidentiality of any quotes received and not misuse any pricing information to unfairly bid against operators outside the Platform. (This is more of a good-faith expectation; we are not heavily restricting such discussions, but fairness is expected.)
• Feedback and Ratings: If a system for ratings or reviews is in place, users should be honest and fair in their feedback. Bus Companies should not post fake reviews for themselves or others, and Customers should not post dishonest or malicious feedback. Our team may moderate feedback to ensure it remains civil and relevant.
• Communication: When communicating via the Platform or with Quotabus staff or other users, you must not engage in harassment, hate speech, threats, or any form of unwelcome or abusive communication. Professional courtesy should be maintained.

We emphasize that any violation of these general conduct rules can result in suspension or banning from the Platform. We strive to maintain a trustworthy marketplace, so we take compliance seriously.

8. Intellectual Property and Licensing

This section addresses the rights to the intellectual property in the Platform and how users can use it, as well as any IP users provide.

8.1 Ownership of the Platform and Content

All content and materials available on the Quotabus Platform, including but not limited to software, web design, text, graphics, logos, button icons, images, audio clips, digital downloads, data compilations, and software code, are the property of Quotabus or its licensors and are protected by intellectual property laws. Specifically:

• Platform Software: Quotabus retains all rights, title, and interest in and to the Platform’s software and codebase. Bus Companies and Customers are granted a limited, revocable, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use the Platform (via web or app interface) for its intended purpose (business management for Bus Companies, and trip booking for Customers), subject to these Terms. You are not granted any ownership of the software. You agree not to copy, modify, distribute, sell, or lease any part of our software, nor to attempt to extract source code or create derivative works, except to the extent that such acts are permitted by law notwithstanding this limitation (in which case you shall provide us with a detailed prior notice and all relevant information).
• Trademarks: “Quotabus” and our logo, as well as any other trademarks and service marks that appear on the Platform, are trademarks of Quotabus S.r.l. (or, where applicable, of third parties who have licensed us their marks). Bus Companies and Customers are not granted any right or license to use any Quotabus trademarks without our prior written consent. However, Bus Companies may factually state (for example on their website or marketing) that they utilize the “Quotabus platform” or are “available on Quotabus” as long as such references are truthful and not misleading. We reserve the right to revoke permission to use our name in such manner if we find it misused.
• Website Content: The text and content on public-facing pages (e.g., informational pages, FAQs, blog posts) are owned by Quotabus. Users should not reproduce or scrape substantial portions of the site without permission. You may of course share our public content via standard sharing features (like linking to a blog post or quoting a small excerpt with attribution) in accordance with fair use principles.

8.2 License to Bus Company Content

Bus Companies may upload or input content into the Platform, such as company profiles, logos, fleet photos, vehicle descriptions, pricing information, and other materials. Bus Companies retain ownership of their own intellectual property in the content they provide. By providing such content on the Platform, Bus Companies grant Quotabus a worldwide,royalty-free, sublicenseable (to our service providers only for operation of the service), license to use, reproduce, display, and distribute that content as needed to operate the Platform and services.

For example, if a Bus Company uploads its logo and fleet pictures, it grants us the right to display those to Customers in quotes or on a profile page. If a Bus Company provides descriptive text about their services, we may display that in search results for Customers looking for options. This license is only for purposes of running and marketing the Platform and services, and it lasts as long as the content is on the Platform. If a Bus Company removes content or terminates its account, we will stop displaying its content (though cached or backup versions might linger for a short time, and any content already shared with Customers for past bookings may remain in those records).

Bus Company also warrants that any content it provides (like images or text) does not infringe any third-party rights. Do not upload images you don't have rights to, or personal data without consent (other than for legitimate use like adding your driver's name for a trip, etc., which falls under Privacy handling). You agree to indemnify Quotabus for any claims that arise from our use of content you supplied, if it turns out to violate someone's IP rights or privacy rights.

8.3 License to Customer Content

In general, Customers do not contribute a lot of content beyond the data needed to make requests (like trip info, which is factual data). If Customers were to provide reviews or testimonials, similarly the Customer grants Quotabus the right to use and display those. For instance, if you as a Customer provide a review of a Bus Company or a testimonial about Quotabus, you give us permission to publish that on our site or marketing materials along with your first name or initials (we will not publish your full identity without permission). Such contributions by Customers are voluntary.

Any suggestions or feedback that Customers or Bus Companies provide to us regarding the Platform (like feature ideas or bug reports) are appreciated, and we may use them without obligation. Specifically, if you provide feedback, you agree that we can use, disclose, and exploit it freely, and you are not owed any compensation or credit (unless we separately agree in writing, such as in an official beta tester program or similar).

8.4 Third-Party Intellectual Property

Quotabus respects intellectual property rights of others and expects users to do the same. You should not upload or transmit any content that infringes another party’s copyrights, trademarks, or other IP rights.

Quotabus respects intellectual property rights of others and expects users to do the same. You should not upload or transmit any content that infringes another party's copyrights, trademarks, or other IP rights.

If any third-party software or libraries are included in the Platform, they are licensed under their own terms; we comply with those and will provide attributions or source code as required by those licenses (e.g., if using an open-source component under an open license). By using our Platform, you also agree to comply with any applicable third-party license terms that are necessary (for example, if we utilize Google Maps within our Platform, your use of that feature may be subject to Google Maps/Google Earth Additional Terms of Service and Privacy Policy).

8.5 Use of Quotabus Data

The data and information available through the Platform (such as details of Bus Operators, pricing data, etc.) are provided for the purpose of facilitating bookings and business operations on the Platform. Users (especially Bus Companies receiving quote requests or Customers receiving quotes) must not use this data for unrelated purposes. For instance, Bus Companies should not harvest customer contact info from the Platform to create their own marketing list outside of fulfilling bookings (unless the customer separately consents outside the Platform). Similarly, Customers shouldn’t use operator info to create some directory or spam them outside the context of their booking.

In summary, each party should use the data obtained through the Platform only in connection with the services provided via Quotabus and in compliance with privacy laws (see Data Protection section).

Quotabus’s databases and compilations of information are protected. Systematic extraction or scraping of data without permission is prohibited.

8.6 Intellectual Property Infringement Claims

If you believe that any content on the Platform infringes your copyright or other IP rights, please notify us promptly with details (for copyright, provide the information required under the EU Copyright Directive or DMCA equivalent if applicable: identification of the work, the location of the infringing material, your statement of good faith and authority to act, etc.). We have procedures to address such complaints and will remove or disable content that is found to be infringing. Repeat infringers may have accounts terminated.

By using the Platform, you agree to respect all IP rights and you acknowledge the ownership of Quotabus and respective parties in all protected materials.

9. Data Protection and Privacy

Quotabus is committed to protecting personal data in accordance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and applicable national data protection laws (such as the Italian Data Protection Code, D.Lgs. 196/2003 as amended). This section provides an overview of how we handle data and the roles of various parties. Please refer also to our Privacy Policy for detailed information on what data we collect and how we use it.

9.1 Roles of Quotabus, Bus Companies, and Customers under GDPR

Quotabus as Data Controller: In relation to personal data of Users collected through the Platform (e.g., a Customer’s name, contact, trip details; a Bus Company representative’s contact info), Quotabus S.r.l. acts as a Data Controller This means we determine the purposes and means of processing that personal data - primarily to provide and improve our services, facilitate bookings, handle payments, etc. We collect only data that is necessary for these purposes and process it under appropriate legal bases (such as performance of a contract with you, legal obligations, and legitimate interests, or consent where required).

Quotabus as Data Processor (for Bus Company CRM data): In some cases, for Bus Companies using our SaaS features, we may process personal data that the Bus Company inputs about its own customers (for example, if a Bus Company uses Quotabus CRM to store contacts or uses the Platform to email their clients). In such situations, the Bus Company is the Data Controller of their customer data, and Quotabus acts as a Data Processor,on their behalf. We will process that data only in accordance with the Bus Company’s instructions (as given through the Platform functionality and as per these Terms). The Bus Company must ensure they have the right to collect and process that data (e.g., that they have collected it lawfully and have consent or another legal basis to use it in the Platform). The terms of data processing are further outlined in our Privacy Policy and/or any Data Processing Addendum (DPA) we provide. By using the Platform, Bus Company agrees to our DPA which is incorporated by reference or available upon request, thereby satisfying GDPR Art. 28 requirements.

Bus Companies as Independent Controllers (for trip execution): When a Customer’s booking is confirmed, certain personal data of the Customer (or passengers) will be shared with the Bus Company (e.g., name and phone number of group leader, passenger list if provided, etc.) so that they can execute the trip. In doing so, the Bus Company is typically acting as an independent Data Controller of that data - using it to fulfill the transport contract. The Bus Company must handle that personal data in accordance with data protection law: e.g., only use it for the purpose of carrying out the service and not retain it longer than necessary, and protect it appropriately. Bus Companies should not use passenger data for any marketing or unrelated purposes unless they obtain separate consent after the trip (and such approach must comply with anti-spam laws).

Customers as Data Subjects: Customers (especially individuals) have rights regarding their personal data under GDPR: right of access, rectification, erasure, restriction, objection, and portability, among others. Quotabus honors these rights. For example, a Customer can request a copy of their data we hold or ask to delete their account. Note that if a Customer asks for deletion of data that is necessary for a booked upcoming service, deletion might mean we cannot fulfill the service (leading to cancellation) - we will clarify consequences in such cases. Some data must be retained for legal reasons (like invoices). reasons.

9.2 Data Collection and Use

Personal Data Collected: Generally, the data we collect includes: user contact information (name, email, phone, address for billing), account credentials, identification info for businesses (like VAT number, company reg.), trip details (which might include pickup location and time - which could be personal data if it involves a specific person’s address, etc.), communications between Users on the platform, and payment information (though payment details like credit card numbers are handled by our payment processor, not stored on our servers). We also collect usage data like IP addresses, browser type, and cookies as described in our Privacy Policy, for security and improving the service.

Purposes: We use personal data to provide our services (e.g., sharing necessary details with Bus Companies for bookings, sending booking confirmations to Customers), to facilitate payments, to communicate with users (service messages, updates, or marketing if they opted in), to comply with legal obligations (tax, accounting, lawful requests by authorities), and to improve our platform (analyzing how users navigate, etc., often using aggregated or anonymized data for analytics). We do not sell personal data to third parties. We only share data as needed: with Bus Operators to perform a booking, with service providers under contract (like cloud hosting on Google Cloud - data stored in EU data centers, or email provider like Mailgun to send emails, etc.), or if required by law.

Third-Party Processors: As noted, we utilize reputable third-party services to help run Quotabus. For instance:

• Payment Processing: Stripe is used to process online payments, meaning when you enter card details, that goes directly to Stripe. Stripe is a PCI-DSS compliant payment processor and acts as a Data Processor for payment data on our behalf (and in some cases a data controller for certain financial info for their legal compliance).
• Hosting: Google Cloud Platform (GCP)is used to host our application and databases. We typically choose EU-based servers for storing personal data of EU users to keep data local. GCP implements strong security and is compliant with GDPR (under EU Standard Contractual Clauses or their binding corporate rules, etc. as applicable).
• Location Services: Google Maps API might be used on our Platform to help Customers or Bus Companies select addresses or view maps of routes. If so, using Google Maps may involve sending location queries to Google’s servers. Google may collect some information (like addresses looked up, or your IP) under their terms. Use of such features implies agreement to Google’s terms (which we’ll reference in the app if applicable). We do not mass-send personal data to Google Maps beyond what’s needed for map queries.
• Communications: Mailgun or similar email delivery services are used to send out emails (e.g., confirmation emails, notifications). These services process the email addresses and content on our behalf purely for sending communications. They might store logs of sent messages for a limited time.
• Others: We may use other tools, e.g., a CRM or support ticketing system, to manage user communications or a survey tool to collect feedback. All such providers are vetted for GDPR compliance and bound by data processing agreements to only act on our instructions and keep data secure.

We list our key sub-processors in the Privacy Policy and maintain transparency about changes. By using our Platform, Users consent to the involvement of these processors as necessary for the service.

Data Security: We employ technical and organizational measures to protect personal data. This includes using encryption (TLS) for data in transit, encryption at rest for sensitive information, access controls so only authorized personnel or processes can access user data, and regular security assessments. Users are also responsible for security - notably, protecting their password and using the Platform over secure networks.

9.3 Privacy Policy and Consent

These Terms reference our Privacy Policy which provides more detailed disclosures on data processing. By accepting these Terms, users also acknowledge our Privacy Policy. In case any part of the services requires specific consent (for example, sending marketing emails to Bus Companies or Customers), we will obtain that separately and clearly (e.g., a checkbox to subscribe to a newsletter). Users can withdraw consent for marketing at any time without affecting the core service.

Quotabus does not process “special categories” of personal data (such as health info, political opinions, etc.) except incidentally if a user provides something (like if a Customer notes a passenger has a disability - health info - but that’s used only to ensure suitable service, under explicit context). We do not knowingly collect data from children; the service is for adults booking travel, and any minors in a group are under the booking adult’s data.

Data Retention: We retain personal data only as long as necessary for the purposes. Booking records might be kept for some years to comply with legal record-keeping (e.g., 10 years for financial records in Italy). Account data is kept while the account is active; if an account is deleted, we remove or anonymize personal info, except what must be retained. We may retain anonymized usage data longer for analytics since it no longer identifies a person.We retain personal data only as long as necessary for the purposes. Booking records might be kept for some years to comply with legal record-keeping (e.g., 10 years for financial records in Italy). Account data is kept while the account is active; if an account is deleted, we remove or anonymize personal info, except what must be retained. We may retain anonymized usage data longer for analytics since it no longer identifies a person.

Data Transfers: Generally, we try to keep data in the EU. If any personal data is transferred outside the European Economic Area, we ensure an adequate level of protection, e.g., by using providers in countries with adequacy decisions or employing Standard Contractual Clauses as per GDPR Art. 46. By using the service, you understand that your data may be processed in countries outside your residence, but always with safeguards.

User Rights: Users can exercise their rights by contacting us at the contact in the Privacy Policy. We will respond within the timeframes required by law (usually one month). If a Bus Company receives a data request directly related to data we process for them, they should notify us so we can assist (since often we host the data). For instance, if a passenger contacts a Bus Company to delete their data, the Bus Company should also inform us so we delete any copies in the Platform.

Confidentiality: We treat personal data as confidential. Only authorized staff or contractors with a need-to-know have access to personal data, and they are bound by confidentiality obligations.

In summary, data protection is a shared responsibility between Quotabus and Users. We take care to protect user data and use it only as described. Users, by using the service, agree to such use and also agree to use any data they obtain through the service in a lawful manner.

For more details, always refer to the full Privacy Policy which is hereby incorporated into these Terms.

10. Disclaimers of Warranties

Quotabus strives to provide the best possible service, but there are certain things we cannot promise. This section outlines the disclaimers and the extent of warranties (or lack thereof) related to our Platform and services, to the extent permitted by law.

Platform "As Is": The Platform (including the website, software, and all content) is provided "as is" and "as available." Quotabus and its suppliers or licensors do not warrant that the Platform will be error-free, uninterrupted, secure, or free of viruses or other harmful components. While we aim for high availability and accuracy, we cannot guarantee that the software will always function without disruptions or that it will meet all of your specific expectations. Bus Companies in particular acknowledge that software can have bugs, and while we will try to fix any that significantly affect use, use of the Platform is at your own risk.

No Implied Warranties: To the maximum extent allowed by applicable law, we disclaim any and all implied warranties or conditions that are not expressly made herein. This includes implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title, non-infringement, and any warranties arising from course of dealing or usage of trade. For example, we do not guarantee that using the Platform will increase a Bus Company’s business or that a Customer’s transportation will always be available (things can happen beyond our control). We do not make promises about the number of quote requests a Bus Company will receive or the suitability of any particular Bus Operator for a Customer’s needs beyond vetting that they are licensed.

Third-Party Content: Any information about Bus Companies (like profiles, fleet descriptions) or Customer reviews or third-party links are not warranted by us. We are not responsible for content provided by users or external sites. For instance, if a Bus Company profile claims something (like having Wi-Fi on board), we don’t independently warrant that - though if it’s part of a booking promise, then failing that would mean a service issue to resolve, not a breach by us but by the operator. We disclaim responsibility for the accuracy of user-provided content.

Any information about Bus Companies (e.g., profiles, fleet descriptions), Customer reviews, or third-party links are not warranted by Quotabus. We are not responsible for content provided by users or external sites. For example, if a Bus Company profile claims something (like having Wi-Fi on board), Quotabus doesn't independently warrant it. If such a claim is part of a booking promise and fails, it's considered a service issue to resolve by the operator, not a breach by Quotabus. We disclaim responsibility for the accuracy of user-provided content.

Maps and Directions: If our Platform provides maps or suggested routes via Google Maps or similar, note that those are for planning purposes and come without warranty for accuracy. Road conditions and routes may differ. Always use current local information and the driver’s knowledge.

No Warranty of Continuous Availability: There may be times the Platform is down for maintenance or due to technical issues. We will try to schedule maintenance during low usage times and give notice if it’s significant downtime. But we can’t guarantee zero downtime. Bus Companies should have contingency for managing things if the Platform is temporarily unavailable. We will not be liable for any loss of data or opportunities due to downtime, though we will of course work to restore service and recover data as soon as possible.

Compatibility: We do not guarantee that our Platform will be compatible with every device or browser. We aim to support current versions of major browsers. Using outdated technology may result in suboptimal experience. It’s the user’s responsibility to use appropriate technology (and ensure up-to-date antivirus, etc., on their side).

No Other Promises: Except as explicitly stated in these Terms, no oral or written information or advice given by our representatives shall create any warranty. Users should not rely on any representation not contained in these Terms as establishing some guarantee.

Consumer Law Exceptions: If you are a consumer (an individual using our service for personal, non-commercial purposes), please note that certain disclaimers or limitations might not apply to you as per consumer protection laws. For instance, under some laws, services must meet a level of quality and match their description. Our intent is not to disclaim any mandatory warranties that the law does not allow us to disclaim. For example, Italian consumer law may have certain implied warranties for services. We acknowledge those to the extent they are legally required. However, where we are allowed to disclaim, especially for business-to-business aspects, we do so as above.

In summary, while we commit to doing our best, use of Quotabus is at your own risk and the responsibility for the actual transportation service lies with the Bus Operator. We provide the platform and intermediary services without broad warranties. This transparency is necessary given the complexity of real-world operations and technology.

11. Limitation of Liability and Indemnification

This section caps and clarifies the liability of Quotabus to users and establishes when users need to indemnify (compensate) Quotabus for certain claims. Different rules may apply for business users and consumers, in line with applicable law.

11.1 Limitation of Liability (Quotabus)

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Quotabus (including its officers, directors, employees, agents, and affiliates - collectively, “Quotabus Indemnitees”) will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits, revenue, business, goodwill, data, or other intangible losses, arising out of or in connection with your use of (or inability to use) the Platform or services, even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages. This includes, for example: losses resulting from a Bus Company not getting a certain volume of business or a Customer having to find last-minute alternative transport due to an issue - those kinds of consequential losses are not recoverable from us.

Quotabus’s liability for direct damages or losses is also limited. Specifically, our total aggregated liability to a Bus Company or Customer for all claims arising from or related to these Terms or the use of the Platform shall not exceed the amount of fees actually paid by you to Quotabus for the service in question, or €500, whichever is greater. If you are a Customer who paid €1000 for a trip that went wrong due to our breach, our maximum liability might be €1000 (the amount paid). If you are a Bus Company paying €100/month subscription for a year, our max liability likely €1200 in that context. This cap applies in aggregate, meaning if multiple incidents or claims, they all roll up under that cap.

Operational Liability on Bus Operators: As emphasized, any liability arising from the operation of transport (accidents, injuries, property damage, delays, non-performance) lies primarily with the Bus Operator. The Bus Operator is the sole party responsible for the execution of the charter service and is liable for any claims from Customers or third parties due to their operation (e.g., if there’s an accident causing injury or luggage loss, the Bus Operator’s insurance and liability cover that). Quotabus is not the carrier and thus, to the extent permitted by law, is not liable for acts or omissions of the Bus Operator. Even if a Customer were to sue Quotabus for something the Bus Operator did, these Terms make clear that we would seek to pass that liability to the Bus Operator (and we require Bus Companies to indemnify us accordingly, see below).

Service Interruptions and Data: Quotabus is not liable for any damages caused by interruptions in availability of the Platform or any unauthorized access to or loss of data that is not due to our intentional misconduct. We recommend Bus Companies keep backup of critical info (though we obviously secure data, but just as a precaution, especially during critical times).

Force Majeure: Under no circumstances shall Quotabus be liable for any failure or delay in performing its obligations resulting from causes beyond its reasonable control (see Force Majeure in Section 13). Events like natural disasters, war, cyberattacks on infrastructure, pandemics, government orders, etc., that directly impact our ability to deliver services or the Bus Operator’s ability to perform trips, will exempt us from liability for non-performance during that period.

Specific Jurisdiction Note: If you are using Quotabus in a jurisdiction that does not allow certain liability exclusions or limitations, then some limitations in this section may not apply to you to the extent disallowed. In such cases, our liability is limited to the maximum extent permitted by law.

11.2 Indemnification by Bus Companies

Bus Companies (Operators) agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Quotabus and its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) that arise out of or relate to:

• Operational Claims: Any claim by a Customer or passenger or third party arising from the Bus Company’s provision (or failure to provide) the transportation services. For example, if a passenger is injured on the bus due to driver’s fault and they sue Quotabus, the Bus Company must indemnify us. Or if passenger’s property is damaged or lost and they blame Quotabus as arranger, you’ll cover us for that claim. This extends to any fines or penalties incurred due to the Bus Company’s regulatory violations (e.g., if a regulator fines Quotabus because a Bus Company it contracted didn’t have a proper license unbeknownst to us, that Bus Company owes us indemnity).
• Breach of Terms: Any claim resulting from the Bus Company’s breach of these Terms or the warranties/responsibilities herein. For instance, if you provided false info or misused the Platform and it caused damage or a lawsuit, you cover us.
• Infringement by Content: Any claim that content provided by the Bus Company (text, images, logos) infringes third-party intellectual property or privacy rights. If a photo you uploaded is subject to a copyright claim, you’ll handle that and hold us harmless.
• Misuse of Data: Any claim or penalty arising from Bus Company’s handling of personal data through the Platform in violation of applicable laws (e.g., if a Bus Company exports customer data from our system and misuses it, leading to a GDPR fine that somehow involves Quotabus, the Bus Company should indemnify us).

This indemnification means the Bus Company will cover all costs and losses, including legal defense costs, of Quotabus in such situations. We will typically notify you of any such claim and may require you to take over defense or cooperate in defense. We will try to mitigate costs and not make admissions that harm indemnification rights.

11.3 Indemnification by Customers

Customers (to the extent they are not consumers, or even consumers to the extent the law allows) agree to indemnify and hold harmless Quotabus (and affiliates, etc.) from any claims or losses arising out of:

• Breach or Misconduct: Your violation of these Terms or any laws in connection with your use of the services. For example, if you use the Platform to engage in fraudulent behavior or you materially misrepresent something and it causes us damage (like a chargeback fraud or legal issue), you cover us.
• Passenger Actions: If as a group organizer, your group causes damage or injury and a claim is directed at Quotabus (perhaps alleging we were negligent in allowing that group or something), you would indemnify us. Similarly, if a passenger causes an accident and a third party tries to sue everyone including Quotabus, the origin of that claim is passenger conduct, so you would help protect us.
• Illegal Use: If you used the Platform or service for an illegal purpose and that brings liability to us.

We understand consumers may have limited indemnity obligations under law (some jurisdictions don’t allow forcing a consumer to fully indemnify a company especially if the company is partly at fault). This clause is intended mainly to deter abuse and assign responsibility where it belongs. We’re not going to seek indemnity from a normal law-abiding Customer for, say, a bus being late. It’s more if a Customer does something clearly wrongful.

11.4 Release

To the fullest extent permitted by law, you (the User) release Quotabus from responsibility for any claims, demands, and damages arising out of disputes between users of the Platform. If, for example, a Bus Company and a Customer have a disagreement or incident that is not due to our breach (say a disagreement about cleanliness or minor issues), and they somehow involve us, you release us from those if we are not at fault. That being said, we will try to assist in resolving disputes fairly.

Conclusion of Liability Terms: We want all parties to be aware that while we stand behind our platform, we cannot take on unlimited liability. The limitations and indemnities help ensure that each party is accountable for what is under their control: Quotabus for the platform and arrangement service (with limits), Bus Operators for running safe and lawful operations, and Customers for their own conduct and fair dealings. This allows the service to function without undue legal risk that would otherwise drive up costs or make it unviable.

12. Termination and Suspension

This section outlines how and when the contractual relationship under these Terms can be terminated by either Quotabus or the user, and what happens afterward.

12.1 Termination by Users

Bus Companies: Bus Companies may terminate their Subscription and close their account as described in Section 6.3. If a Bus Company wishes to fully terminate their relationship (not just cancel a subscription renewal), they should inform us in writing. We may ask for confirmation from an authorized person. Termination will not relieve the Bus Company of any obligations incurred prior to termination - for example, any bookings already accepted must still be honored or properly canceled with Customers, and any outstanding payments or indemnity obligations remain due. If a Bus Company simply stops paying and stops using the service, we may treat that as termination (after attempts to reach you). Upon termination, access to the Platform will be revoked for that Bus Company. The Bus Company should export any needed data prior to termination; after termination, data may be deleted (except as required to retain). Bus Companies who terminate can potentially rejoin later by re-registering, but we reserve the right to refuse service if they had a history of breach or issues.

Customers: Customers who have an account may terminate it by contacting us or using any account deletion function on the Platform (if available). If a Customer terminates their account while having an active booking that is not yet executed, termination of account does not automatically cancel the booking - the booking would still proceed unless separately canceled. (If the user wants to cancel the service as well, they need to follow the cancellation policy in Section 5.3). We advise Customers to only delete accounts after any booked travel is completed or canceled, to avoid confusion. After account deletion, the Customer will no longer have access to the account dashboard. We will handle their personal data as described (some data retained, others deleted or anonymized).

Consumers’ Right of Withdrawal: Under EU consumer law, for certain types of contracts concluded at a distance, consumers have a 14-day right to withdraw. However, important: contracts for passenger transport services for specific dates (like booking a charter bus for a set day) are exempt from the 14-day withdrawal right (Directive 2011/83/EU, Art. 16, letter (l), implemented in Italian Consumer Code Art. 59) because they fall under services of transport with a specific date. Therefore, when a Customer (consumer) confirms a transportation booking, they do not have a general 14-day window to cancel without penalty - the cancellation is governed by our policy (which is stricter as per Section 5.3). For the SaaS subscription (Bus Companies), since they are businesses typically, withdrawal right doesn’t apply, and even if considered, we provide a trial or monthly terms that can be ended rather than a refund after the fact.

Thus, aside from our cancellation policy, users generally cannot unilaterally void a concluded contract except as allowed by law or these Terms.

12.2 Termination or Suspension by Quotabus

Quotabus may terminate the contract or suspend your account in the following circumstances:

• Breach of Terms: If you materially breach these Terms and (if curable) do not cure it within a reasonable period after notice. Some breaches are not curable or merit immediate suspension (e.g., using the platform for illegal purposes, non-payment in B2B, etc.).
• Inactivity: For Customers, if an account is inactive (no logins) for a very long period (e.g., 2 years) and has no upcoming bookings, we may close it as part of housekeeping, after sending a notice to the registered email. For Bus Companies, if subscription lapses and no use for long, similar.
• Legal Compliance: If required by law or a regulatory authority (for example, if we are informed that providing the service to you is in violation of sanctions or you are misusing data in a way that violates GDPR severely, etc.), we may suspend or terminate.
• Business Discontinuation: If we decide to discontinue the Platform or our business (hopefully never, but we mention it), we would terminate all accounts with notice. In that scenario, we’d allow existing bookings to be honored or refunded. Similarly, if our ownership changes, the new owner might continue under these Terms or propose new ones (with notice and your option to terminate if you disagree).

Suspension: If an issue arises, we might suspend your account (disable login, halt new bookings, etc.) as a temporary measure while investigating. For Bus Companies, suspension could occur for non-payment until resolved, or for a serious safety complaint until cleared. For Customers, if suspicious activity (like potential fraud) is detected, we might suspend while verifying.

We will notify you of suspension or termination, stating the reason unless legally prevented (sometimes fraud investigations can’t be fully disclosed). If you believe we have suspended/terminated in error, you can contact us to appeal or explain. We reserve ultimate discretion in protecting our platform and other users.

Upon termination of your relationship with Quotabus:

• Cease Use: You must stop using the Platform and services. Any rights granted to you under these Terms end.
• Outstanding Bookings: If you are a Bus Company, you must still fulfill any booking you agreed to (or coordinate a proper handover) or else face liabilities to the Customer (and possibly to us). If you are a Customer, any upcoming bookings remain in effect (unless canceled); terminating your account doesn’t automatically cancel the underlying contract with the Bus Operator. We will assist in making arrangements if a user who is terminated cannot use the platform interface to manage a booking.
• Payment Settlement: All fees owed to Quotabus up to termination become immediately due. Quotabus will also settle any amounts owed to you (e.g., if you’re a Bus Company whom we collected customer payment for a future trip, we will still pay you that minus any offsets, unless the trip is canceled). Termination doesn’t absolve liability for payments or damages due for prior acts.
• Data Access: As described, you may lose access to data on the Platform. Bus Companies should use any data export features before termination. After termination, we are not obligated to store your data, except as needed for legal reasons. That said, for a period (e.g., 30 days after termination), a Bus Company might request certain records and we will reasonably provide copies (like of past invoices or bookings) if needed, as long as it’s a reasonable request and doesn’t compromise others’ data.
• Confidential Information: Any confidential information obtained must remain confidential even after termination.
• Survival: Provisions of these Terms which by nature extend beyond termination shall survive. This includes sections on payment obligations, liability limitations, indemnities, governing law, dispute resolution, and any licenses given to us (for content provided, up to usage needed for fulfilling the Terms).

We aim to handle terminations amicably. If your account is terminated and you believe it’s unjust, you can reach out to discuss; in some cases, we might reinstate under conditions. But we also reserve the right to permanently ban users who have severely violated trust or law.

13. Miscellaneous Provisions

This final section covers various standard (but important) contractual clauses, such as force majeure, governing law, etc.

13.1 Force Majeure

Force Majeure refers to events or circumstances beyond a party’s reasonable control that prevent that party from fulfilling its obligations under these Terms. Neither Quotabus nor any Bus Operator shall be liable for failure to perform or delay in performing any obligation (excluding payment obligations) under these Terms if the failure/delay is due to a force majeure event. Such events include, but are not limited to:

• Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, severe weather)
• War, invasion, act of foreign enemies, hostilities, terrorism or threat of terrorism, civil war, civil unrest, riots.
• Acts of government or regulatory authorities (e.g., lockdowns, quarantine orders, travel bans, road closures by authorities)
• Major technical failures or utility outages (e.g., widespread electrical blackout, internet backbone failure, or cyberattack)
• Epidemics or pandemics (declared by health authorities) that directly affect the ability to travel or provide services
• Other unforeseen events beyond control, like fires, explosions, or serious accidents.

In the context of Quotabus’s services: if a force majeure event occurs that affects a booked trip (for example, a sudden natural disaster makes travel impossible or government restrictions due to a pandemic forbid group travel), Quotabus or the Bus Operator will inform the Customer as soon as possible and the obligations will be suspended to the extent affected. We will not be considered in breach for not providing the service during that time. If the force majeure situation continues such that the trip cannot be carried out at all as planned, we would work with the Customer either to reschedule the service (if feasible) or cancel the booking with appropriate refunds. For instance, if roads are closed due to flooding on the day of travel and no alternate route/date is possible, the contract may be considered void for impossibility and the Customer refunded.

For Bus Companies using the Platform, if a force majeure event knocks out our Platform (say a major internet issue or a fire in our data center), we’ll obviously try to restore it asap, but we won’t be liable for damages arising from that downtime as per force majeure. We will likely have backups and contingency to minimize disruption.

Each party should use reasonable efforts to mitigate the impact of force majeure. For example, in case of a bus breakdown (which might be mechanical but not really “force majeure” unless due to something like supplier failure outside control), the Bus Operator will try to get a replacement as per our earlier note. True force majeure often has no good solution besides waiting it out or canceling.

13.2 Changes to Terms

Quotabus reserves the right to modify or update these Terms from time to time, for example to reflect changes in the law, new features, or changes in business practices. When we do so, we will provide notice to users. Notice may be given by posting the updated Terms on our website with a new effective date and by sending an email to registered users or a notification via the Platform.

For Bus Companies or registered Customers, we will endeavor to give reasonable advance notice (such as 15 or 30 days) before significant changes take effect, especially if the changes could be materially adverse to users. Minor changes (like clarifications or typo corrections, or changes due to legal requirements with immediate effect) may be effective immediately upon posting.

If you do not agree with the updated Terms, you have the right to stop using the Platform and (if you have an account) to terminate as described. Continuing to use the Platform or services after the effective date of the changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms. We will include an “Last Updated” date at the top of the Terms for reference. We encourage you to review the Terms periodically, though we will take proactive steps to inform you of important changes.

For ongoing bookings, the Terms in effect at the time of booking will generally govern that booking unless the changes were required by law or you agree to the new terms. For Subscriptions, the new Terms will apply from the next renewal or as specified.

13.3 Governing Law

These Terms and any disputes or claims arising out of or in connection with them or their subject matter (including non-contractual disputes or claims) shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Italy. We choose Italian law because Quotabus is an Italian entity and we operate under Italian/European legal frameworks.

If you are a consumer residing in the EU, this choice of law does not deprive you of any protection afforded by provisions of your country’s law that cannot be waived by agreement by virtue of EU or national law - meaning, if your home country has certain consumer protections more stringent than Italian law, you may invoke those if applicable (per Rome I Regulation for contracts).

13.4 Jurisdiction and Dispute Resolution

Any dispute arising under these Terms or related to the services shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the Italian courts. The designated forum (for business users and for any dispute where such selection is permitted) is the Court of Milan, Italy. Milan is specified as the jurisdiction as it’s a significant commercial hub in Italy and provides a neutral and proficient forum. Quotabus may however, at its discretion, initiate legal proceedings in the court of the defendant’s preference if the law allows.

Consumers’ Jurisdiction: If you are a consumer (not using Quotabus for business purposes) and your habitual residence is in Italy, you can bring proceedings either in the courts of Milan or in the courts of your town of residence in Italy (per Italian Consumer Code, disputes with consumers can often be brought where the consumer lives). If you are a consumer residing in another EU country, you may have the right to bring a claim in your home country’s courts under EU law. These Terms do not override any such rights. We state Milan as the primary jurisdiction for consistency, but we acknowledge that consumer disputes might be heard elsewhere as mandated by law. We will submit to those jurisdictions when required by applicable law.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): While not mandated here, we are open to attempt an amicable resolution of disputes. Users can always reach out to our customer service to address any issues. In the EU, consumers can also seek dispute resolution through the EU Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform or other mediation entities. We do not commit to a specific ADR in these Terms but may consider it on a case-by-case basis if it helps resolve an issue amicably.

Class Action Waiver:To the extent permitted by law, you and Quotabus agree that each may bring claims against the other only in an individual capacity and not as a plaintiff or class member in any purported class or representative action. (This is more relevant in jurisdictions like the US; Italy/EU doesn’t have US-style class actions, though Italy has some collective action mechanisms. If those become relevant, we may update Terms or handle accordingly.)

13.5 Entire Agreement

These Terms, along with the Privacy Policy and any additional written agreements or addenda you have entered into with Quotabus (such as a separate Data Processing Agreement or a specific commercial agreement if any), constitute the entire agreement between you and Quotabus regarding the use of our Platform and services. They supersede any prior agreements, understandings, or arrangements (whether oral or written) relating to the same subject matter. In entering into this contract, neither party has relied on any statement or representation that is not expressly set out in these Terms, and neither party shall have any remedy with respect to any statement not included herein (except in the case of fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation, where reliance on false statements can indeed be remedied notwithstanding this clause).

If there is any conflict between these Terms and any other document incorporated by reference, these Terms will generally prevail, except where we explicitly state otherwise in a particular addendum (for instance, a DPA might govern privacy specifics).

13.6 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found by a court or competent authority to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that provision (or the offending part of a provision) shall be deemed deleted or limited to the minimum extent necessary. The remaining provisions of the Terms will continue in full force and effect. In other words, just because one clause is struck down, the rest remains valid. For example, if a law changes that makes our limitation of liability too broad for consumers, that part would be adjusted by the court and the rest of the Terms still stand. The parties (you and us) also agree to attempt in good faith to replace any invalid or unenforceable provision with a valid one that, to the greatest extent possible, achieves the intended commercial result of the original.

13.7 No Waiver

If Quotabus does not immediately enforce any right or provision of these Terms, that does not constitute a waiver of such right or provision. A waiver by Quotabus of any default or breach by a user will not be considered a continuing waiver of such default or a waiver of any other breach. Similarly, you cannot claim a right is waived just because we didn’t enforce it at one time. All waivers must be explicitly made in writing to be effective.

For instance, if the Bus Company misses a payment and we don’t act on it right away, we’re not waiving our right to collect that payment or to enforce future payments. Or if a Customer violates a rule and we don’t suspend them, we’re not waiving our right to do so for that or future violations.

13.8 Assignment

Quotabus may assign or transfer its rights and obligations under these Terms to an affiliate or as part of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, or by operation of law. For example, if Quotabus is acquired by another company, your contract with us (these Terms) will continue with the new company stepping into our place. We will notify users of any such transfer if it materially affects the services.

Users (Bus Companies or Customers) may not assign or transfer their rights or obligations under these Terms to any third party without our prior written consent. For Bus Companies, this means you cannot, for example, transfer your subscription or account to another company by just a letter - you’d need our consent (which we might give if, say, your company is bought by another and they want to keep using it, but we’d need to agree and likely have the new entity agree to Terms). For Customers, your bookings are typically personal to you and your group; you can’t just transfer a booking to someone else without letting us know (some changes are okay like substituting a passenger, but transferring the entire contract to a different company or organizer requires approval).

Any purported assignment in violation of this section is void.

13.9 Notices

Communications and notices under these Terms should ideally be in writing. Quotabus may contact you via the email address associated with your account, via postal mail if address is provided, or via notifications on the Platform. You may contact Quotabus via the contact details provided on our website (e.g., our customer support email or mailing address given in the Introduction).

For formal legal notices (like breach notices, or legal claims), they should be sent to Quotabus’s registered address (Via Stadio 20, 95020 Aci Bonaccorsi, Italy) with a copy by email for speed. We will send formal notices to the address or email you have given us.

Notices are deemed received: if by email, on the day sent (or the next working day if sent outside business hours); if by courier or post, when delivered or when attempted delivery if refused.

It is your responsibility to keep your contact information up to date. If your email changes and you don’t update it, you might miss important notices.

13.10 Language

These Terms are provided in English. If we provide translations in other languages (for convenience or local legal requirements), the English version will prevail in case of any inconsistency or dispute of interpretation, unless otherwise required by law. (For instance, if we provide an Italian version, it might be equally authoritative given Italy’s requirement for Italian language contracts with consumers; we might then say both are equally binding. But absent that, we stick with English as controlling.)

13.11 Relationship of Parties

Nothing in these Terms is intended to, or shall, create a partnership, joint venture, or employment relationship between Quotabus and any user (Bus Company or Customer). Bus Companies are independent contractors to their customers and not agents of Quotabus, and Customers are simply contracting parties or beneficiaries, not employees or such. These Terms do not create an exclusive relationship either; Bus Companies are free to use other software or get business elsewhere, and Customers can use other travel services.

13.12 Third-Party Rights

Except as explicitly provided (e.g., Bus Operator rights to disclaim or enforce certain provisions toward Customer, which could be argued as third-party beneficiary rights), these Terms are not intended to give rights to anyone except you and Quotabus. For example, even though we describe bus operator liability, that doesn’t mean a Bus Operator can cite these Terms against a customer in court as a third-party beneficiary (unless a court interpreted that the Terms between customer and Quotabus incorporate the liability limitations for the operator - which is possible). But generally, only the signatories (Quotabus and user) can enforce.

One exception: if an indemnified party (like an officer of Quotabus) is sued, they can likely invoke the indemnification clause even though they are not individually a signatory, because it was clearly intended for their benefit. This is a technicality under some laws (some jurisdictions allow third-party beneficiaries if contract shows intent to benefit them).

13.13 Headings and Interpretation

Headings and section titles in these Terms are for convenience only and have no legal effect. Words in the singular include the plural and vice versa as needed. “Including” means “including without limitation”. Any examples given (e.g., list of force majeure events) are illustrative and not exhaustive.

If we say “in writing”, that typically includes email unless we specify physical writing. If we say “days”, we usually mean calendar days unless business days are specified.

13.14 Customer Service and Complaints

If you have any questions, issues, or complaints regarding the services, please contact us. We value user satisfaction and will attempt to resolve any issues in good faith. Contact channels: legal@quotabus.com. For EU consumers, if you feel your issue isn’t resolved, you may use the Online Dispute Resolution platform (ec.europa.eu/odr) or other available means, but we hope to address any concern directly first.

By using the Quotabus Platform or services, you acknowledge that you have read and understood these Terms and agree to be bound by them. Thank you for using Quotabus, and we look forward to serving your needs in group transportation!