Janice R. Andrews
The Los Angeles Metro is prepared for possible bus service interruptions as drivers consider taking a “sick out” in response to growing safety concerns after a string of assaults. There could be delays on several lines, including Lines 2, 4, 18, 20, 40, 45, 53, 66, 70, 108, 110, 111, 206, and 720, according to a warning from the Metro.
Metro stressed the vital function of bus operators and asked them to rethink their decision to report sick in a statement posted on the social media platform X. Metro showed support for drivers and their families by highlighting current initiatives to improve safety precautions, such as accelerating the installation of safety barriers and augmenting the number of security guards on buses.
But there have been a number of concerning instances in the background of this possible interruption. The most recent incident included a Hawthorne man who, after allegedly stabbing a Metro bus operator in the chest, entered a not guilty plea to attempted murder. The serious need for improved safety protocols in the public transportation system is highlighted by this tragedy.
Metro’s Board of Directors has authorized emergency steps to hasten the installation of safety barriers on thousands of buses in response to the increased threat. The purpose of the action is to combat the “sudden, unexpected increased severity of assaults on operators.”
As the situation develops, Metro urges drivers to think about how their actions will affect the community as a whole, highlighting the critical role public transportation plays in providing access to basic services for a great number of people throughout Los Angeles County.
