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Bus Driver Sickout Keeps D-Dot Buses Parked

DETROIT (WWJ) - UPDATE: 9:30AM: 175 drivers out sick

A bus driver sickout appears to be unfolding within the Detroit Department of Transportation, as several buses aren't running, leaving riders scrambling. The union for bus drivers says it wasn't planned, but they are holding a 10am rally to highlight safety and security on those D-DOT buses.

One regular bus rider told WWJ's Laura Bonnell that she usually catches the bus at Woodward and State Fair, but she wasn't able to do so Monday morning.

"I catch the bus directly to work everyday," the woman said. "The 8 Mile to Woodward, and the Woodward straight, and without a bus, I'm pretty much stuck."

Instead of taking the bus, the woman was forced to call a cab, and estimated it would cost her about $25 to $30.

Other regular D-Dot riders had to make other plans to get to their destinations; some chose to walk home, ride with a friend or catch a cab.

The Detroit Department of Transportation, meanwhile, warned riders about an anticipated sickout by bus drivers. This is what callers are hearing when they call the D-DOT hotline:

"Sorry to announce that the bus drivers union has scheduled a sickout on Monday, October 21st. Bus service will not be in operation. When service is fully restored, the department will inform all. Again, we are sorry for this inconvenience."

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 26, which represents D-DOT drivers, says they're not holding a sickout, only a 10am rally to bring attention to what they feel are unsafe working conditions.

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