Nineteen bus drivers have filed separate lawsuits against the Metropolitan Transit Authority and Davidson Transit Organization after their personal vehicles were destroyed during last year’s historic flood.
The lawsuits claim that MTA officials wouldn’t allow drivers to move their vehicles on May 2, 2010, as rising waters from the Cumberland River approached the main terminal on Nestor Street.
“(Plaintiff’s) request (to move the vehicle) was refused with the threat of disciplinary actions, up to and including termination if Plaintiff left the premises,” the complaints read.
As a result, floodwaters destroyed all 19 of the drivers’ vehicles and the contents inside, including cash, clothing, stereo equipment and other electronics.
The vehicles ranged from a 2006 Kia Sorento to a 1989 Chevrolet S-10 truck.
According to the complaints filed in Davidson County Circuit Court, MTA officials allowed at least one person to leave the main terminal to purchase pizza for the drivers several hours after denying them access to their vehicles.
The plaintiffs are charging MTA and DTO with negligence in regards to safeguarding and supervising the employee parking area.
Eighteen lawsuits were filed on Thursday afternoon and one was filed on Nov. 22.