Mardi Gras Safety Tips from Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C.

It’s that time of the year again — Mardi Gras! Louisianans and tourists alike are indulging in King Cake, crawfish, parades, beads, street dances, balls, and good times galore. The only thing we love to see more than people enjoying themselves is safety. During Mardi Gras season we encounter large crowds, increased traffic, and unfortunately, drunk driving incidents. We can’t stress enough the importance of staying safe during Mardi Gras.

Yes, we love to celebrate life and Louisiana’s unmatched hospitality — but the biggest advice we can offer is this: stay alert. Enjoy yourself but be smart. Never accept drinks from strangers. Spiked drinks are still very much a concern today.

Float riders, we haven’t forgotten about you. Review your parish and city regulations pertaining to Mardi Gras float riders. In New Orleans, float riders are required by law to wear masks. Remember to abide by all safety requirements and keep an eye out for low-hanging branches. These are key tips for an enjoyable, safe Mardi Gras experience.

Throughout the years we have seen an array of preventable injuries. If we work together, we can make each parade, ball, and gathering a safer experience for everyone. This season we have compiled the following Mardi Gras safety tips:

Mardi Gras Safety Tips for Families and Children

• Teach children of appropriate age to recite their name and a parent’s phone number if asked by law enforcement. Also mark their name and your number on the inside of their clothing as an extra precaution.
• Go to the same area to view parades if possible and teach your child a landmark to meet at if you get separated.
• Teach your children to find a uniformed police officer if they get lost.
• Make sure your children understand never to talk to strangers.
• Never allow children in the street — find an area with barricades and stand behind them.
• Never follow behind floats, bands, or other parade participants. This includes running alongside floats.
• Be aware of horses in the parade route and keep a safe distance at all times.
• Travel in groups and always be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not jump over police barricades.

Mardi Gras Safety Tips for Adults

• Keep track of how many drinks you have consumed.
• Never accept a drink from a stranger — spiked drinks remain a serious concern at large public events.
• Never drink and drive. If you plan to drink, arrange a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service.
• Travel in groups and stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Keep your phone charged and share your location with someone you trust.

Injured During Mardi Gras? We Can Help.

If you or a loved one was injured during Mardi Gras — whether in a drunk driving accident, a crowd-related incident, or any other negligence-related event — Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C. is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with our personal injury attorneys. Have a safe and wonderful Mardi Gras season.

For additional Mardi Gras safety information, visit the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Mardi Gras Safety Tips.