Minimization of delay due to automatic repeat requests in a multi-hop communication system can be accomplished to optimize the performance of delay-constrained applications such as voice over internet protocol (VoIP). The protocol described with relation to such embodiments can reduce the possible retransmissions to the first hop (the hop connecting a mobile node to a relay node). Thus, certain embodiments of the present invention can protect the most error-prone link while reducing the overall delay experienced by the user.