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Mardi Gras brings thousands of people to New Orleans streets for parades, music, and celebrations. But large crowds, moving floats, distracted drivers, and alcohol can also lead to serious accidents.
To stay safe, watch for vehicles, keep children behind parade barriers, and never step into traffic to catch beads or other throws.
This guide covers common Mardi Gras accidents, ways to stay safe, and what to do if someone else’s actions hurt you.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen During Mardi Gras?
Mardi Gras brings heavy foot traffic and more vehicles onto New Orleans streets. With so many people around, it can be hard to move safely, especially near parade routes.
Past accidents show how dangerous these situations can be. In 2019, a driver struck bicyclists and pedestrians on Esplanade Avenue, killing two people and injuring seven others. The driver was later sentenced to 90 years in prison.
In 2017, another driver drove into a crowd during the Endymion parade, injuring several people. These accidents show why both drivers and pedestrians need to stay alert during Mardi Gras.
How Drunk and Distracted Driving Puts Parade-Goers at Risk
Drunk driving is a serious risk during Mardi Gras. Alcohol affects a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to control a vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) , alcohol can affect driving even before a person reaches the legal blood alcohol limit.
Distractions make the roads even more dangerous. Drivers may look at passing floats, check their phones, or search for parking instead of watching for people crossing the street.
During Mardi Gras, drivers need to slow down, follow road closures, and stay alert. Anyone who has been drinking should arrange a sober ride home.
Common Mardi Gras Injuries
People can get hurt in several ways during Mardi Gras, including:
- Pedestrian injuries: Broken bones, head injuries, or internal injuries caused by vehicle collisions.
- Hand injuries: Cuts or broken fingers while catching beads or reaching near floats.
- Slip-and-fall injuries: Falls caused by debris, uneven sidewalks, or crowded streets.
- Eye injuries: Harm caused by beads or other objects thrown from floats.
- Crowd injuries: Bruises, sprains, or falls when crowds suddenly move.
Children face extra risks because they may not see approaching vehicles or floats. Keep them close and behind parade barriers.
How to Prevent Mardi Gras Hand Injuries
Catching beads and other throws is part of the fun, but reaching too close to a moving float can hurt your hands.
Keep your hands away from float wheels, and never reach underneath a float to pick up dropped beads. Avoid grabbing throws from other people, and teach children not to chase anything into the street.
If you suffer a deep cut, severe swelling, numbness, or trouble moving your fingers, seek medical care.
Mardi Gras Safety Tips for Families and Visitors
A little planning can help you enjoy Mardi Gras safely.
Keep Children Away From Moving Floats
Keep children behind barricades and away from parade vehicles. The Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office recommends teaching children their parents’ phone numbers and showing them where to get help if they get separated.
Stay Alert While Walking
Follow these pedestrian safety tips from NHTSA:
- Use sidewalks and marked crossings.
- Put your phone away when crossing the street.
- Watch for approaching vehicles.
- Never assume drivers can see you.
- Do not walk near traffic if alcohol has affected your balance or judgment.
Plan Your Parade Visit
Check the Mardi Gras New Orleans planning guide before heading out.
Remember to:
- Check parade routes and road closures.
- Arrange a sober driver or rideshare.
- Choose a meeting spot in case your group gets separated.
- Keep children close in crowded areas.
- Find nearby restrooms and first-aid stations.
You can also check New Orleans’ official Mardi Gras safety guide for local safety and first-aid information.
What to Do If You Are Injured During Mardi Gras
If you get hurt during a Mardi Gras parade, get medical attention as soon as possible. Call 911 for serious injuries.
Once you’re safe, report the accident to the police. If possible, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and get the names and contact details of anyone who saw what happened.
Hold on to your medical bills, accident report, and insurance papers. If the accident happened along a parade route, note the location and time. These details may help if you decide to file an injury claim.
Who May Be Liable for a Mardi Gras Injury in Louisiana?
If you get hurt during Mardi Gras, you may wonder who is responsible. The answer depends on how the accident happened.
For example, a driver who hits a pedestrian may be held responsible for the injuries. A property owner may also be liable if an unsafe condition on their property causes someone to fall. In some cases, a parade participant or organization may be responsible for an injury caused by careless actions.
An injury alone does not mean someone else is legally at fault. You need evidence showing how the accident happened and who was responsible.
What Compensation May Be Available?
An injury can affect more than just your health. You may have medical bills to pay, time off work, or treatment that continues long after Mardi Gras ends.
If another party is legally responsible, you may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and future treatment. Depending on your injuries, this may also include pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation, or long-term disability.
The amount you may receive depends on how badly you were hurt, how the injury affects your daily life, and the evidence available to support your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue for a hand injury caused by Mardi Gras beads?
You may be able to file a claim if someone else’s careless actions caused your hand injury and they are legally responsible.
What should I do if a parade float injures me?
Get medical help, report the accident, take photos of the scene, and collect witness details to support your injury claim.
Can I file a claim if a drunk driver hits me during Mardi Gras?
Yes, you may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses if the drunk driver caused your injuries.
Can parents seek compensation if their child is injured at Mardi Gras?
Yes, parents may file a claim on their child’s behalf if another person or organization is legally responsible for the injury.
How can a Mardi Gras injury lawyer help?
A lawyer can investigate the accident, identify who may be responsible, gather evidence, and explain your options for seeking compensation.
Get Legal Help After a Mardi Gras Pedestrian Accident
A pedestrian accident can leave you dealing with painful injuries, medical bills, and lost income. You shouldn’t have to figure out your next steps alone.
A New Orleans pedestrian accident lawyer at Allan Berger & Associates, P.L.C. can review your case, explain your legal options, and help you understand what to do next.
Call 504-526-2222 or contact our office online to discuss your situation.
