Author: Landyn A. Gautreau
Louisiana experiences one of the best times of the year during Mardi Gras Season. Our parades, festivities, and traditions attract tourists from all over the country. Plus, locals look forward to the celebrations all year – as does our team!
While Mardi Gras is a great season, it’s also, unfortunately, a time of increased accidents and risks of injury. With that in mind, here are some tips for staying safe this Mardi Gras season and what to do if you’re injured during Mardi Gras.
Tips for Staying Safe This Mardi Gras Season
Several factors cause increased injuries during Mardi Gras season, including:
- Large crowds;
- Moving parade floats;
- The proximity of parade-goers to floats and moving vehicles;
- The presence of alcohol and intoxicated participants;
- The tradition of throwing beads and items from floats;
- The use of ladders on parade routes;
- Crowds on balconies and participants leaning on balcony railings; and
- The presence of debris on sidewalks.
Considering these factors, it’s not surprising that Mardi Gras injuries and accidents occur frequently. However, these risks shouldn’t keep you from enjoying the season. Instead, take precautions to minimize risks and help you stay safe during Mardi Gras.
After observing Mardi Gras injuries for years, here are our tips for staying safe:
- Always be aware of your surroundings, including barricades, parade floats, other participants, wet or slippery surfaces, objects being thrown from floats, and debris on the ground.
- Consume alcohol responsibly. If you’re going to drink, have a designated driver or plan to use UBER. Never consume so much alcohol that it impacts your judgment or ability to safely walk, talk, and navigate parade obstacles.
- Keep a safe distance from floats. Always stay behind barricades and never try to climb on floats or touch people on floats.
- Be cautious on balconies. Avoid over-crowded balconies, don’t lean on railings, and avoid leaning over balconies.
- If you use a ladder, make sure that it’s stable and in good condition.
What to Do If You’re Injured During Mardi Gras
Even if you take reasonable precautions, you still could be injured during Mardi Gras by the dangerous behavior of others. But keep in mind, if others’ negligence or recklessness causes your injury, you likely have the right to compensation.
We’ve assisted clients in obtaining compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even punitive damages resulting from Mardi Gras injuries. If you’re injured during Mardi Gras festivities:
- Seek medical treatment right away.
- Take pictures or videos of the injury and the surrounding area.
- Get contact information for all people involved and any witnesses.
- Contact our team as soon as possible.
Mardi Gras Immunity Statute
People often express concerns that they cannot be compensated for Mardi Gras injuries due to the Mardi Gras Immunity Statute. While this is true for some people, the Mardi Gras immunity statute only applies to limited people and circumstances.
The statute prevents Mardi Gras Krewes and their members from being held responsible for any loss or damage caused by the krewe during Mardi Gras parades. While we could talk about this statute a lot, there are three main points that you need to know:
- It does not provide immunity for “deliberate and wanton acts” or “gross negligence”;
- It likely does not apply to float makers; and
- Under the statute, parade attendees “assume the risk of being struck by any missile whatsoever which has been thrown, tossed, or hurled by members of the Krewe or organization.
Essentially, the immunity statute has limited applicability and doesn’t hinder recovery from many Mardi Gras injuries.
Be Safe This Mardi Gras Season
We hope you have a wonderful Mardi Gras season – Laissez les bons temps rouler! That said, please take safety precautions and follow our tips for staying safe this Mardi Gras season.
If you or a family member is injured, contact our team promptly. We have experience in personal injury litigation and expertise in Louisiana laws. We’ll analyze your case, provide advice, and ensure you receive deserved compensation.
Contact us with any Mardi Gras questions or to schedule a free consultation.