Only time I've seen this saving someone was when said individual got stuck in the US due to snowstorm. Called fdm and first thing checked was whether said individual had officially signed out. Since he had, fdm said no worries, we'll take care of your missed trip.
I'd imagine if he hadn't signed out, he would have gotten a missed trip, a penalty to pay for missed trip and a tea with biscuits meeting along with a warning letter.
Kap