Metro Will Write You An Excuse Letter If They Make You Late

If you're late to work because Metro is running behind, they'll write a note on your behalf to your employer or teacher. Metro spokesperson Anna Chen told KPCC that Metro service can be delayed by power or signal issues, or when equipment malfunctions. She said that for those whose jobs or classes require a reason for tardiness, "Metro will offer to provide them with a form."

To get the form, you just have to call Metro's customer relations hotline (213-922-6235, operational weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.) and ask them to provide a letter. Tell them what line you were using and at what time, and which direction you were headed. They'll verify the delay and either email you or mail you a physical letter on official Metro letterhead. Please note that this doesn't happen immediately: if they need to investigate the delay, it could take up to one day or even three weeks.

My morning commute saw quite a few grumbling passengers waiting for the Gold Line at Union Station. The Gold Line has been experiencing delays since yesterday after a damaged wire forced a southbound train to stop. Metro was able to safely evacuate all the passengers, and they think they'll have the problem solved by this afternoon. For the time being, however, the train is down to one track, resulting in delays of about 20 minutes.

As you can imagine, many riders were concerned they'd be late to class and one rider even told me that she'd been sent home from work yesterday as a punishment for being late. Hopefully, riders like her will be able to benefit from this service.

While you're stuck waiting for your letter, you could also show any unyielding bosses Metro's Twitter feed, which also posts delays and interruptions in service.