Mardi Gras! It’s a point in time to party big. Mardi Gras, “Fat Tuesday,” is one of the best-known parties in the world, with a carnival atmosphere, parades, and a good time had by all.

Except Mardi Gras has long been known as the deadliest state holiday in Louisiana. Why? Because where there is partying and alcohol, there are car accidents. Often deadly car accidents. During one recent Mardi Gras season, from the Friday before Mardi Gras to the end of Tuesday, there were 600 car crashes. Ten deaths resulted, and numerous injuries. Alcohol was involved in more than 150 of the accidents.

Just as New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day can be deadly holidays, Mardi Gras be deadly too.

Mardi Gras arrives this year on March 5. Let’s make it a festive holiday but not a deadly one. Take these safety steps.

• Don’t drink and drive

It’s fine to enjoy yourself on Mardi Gras. But if it involves alcohol, even if it’s only one drink, don’t drive. Take an Uber, or designate a friend or family member to do the driving.

• Be a defensive driver

Even if you don’t drink and drive, realize that inevitably some people will. To the best of your ability, drive defensively. If you see vehicles going over the speed limit or weaving, avoid them. Obey all traffic and speed laws yourself.

If you are driving near a Mardi Gras parade, realize that there may be delays due to the crowds and parades. Don’t become impatient. Don’t try to make stop lights you aren’t going to make. Don’t try to drive through the crowds too quickly.

• Consider public transportation

Consider skipping driving altogether during the Mardi Gras holiday if you’re near the festivities. Public transportation may be the safest option.

• Walk defensively

Danger during Mardi Gras is not limited to those behind a wheel. Drunk drivers often hit pedestrians in the street. Accidents have occurred when drivers drive into crowds. You can also be hit as a pedestrian by drunk, distracted, or even angry drivers, who are growing impatient with the crowds.

Be very careful when walking. When crossing the street, make sure no cars are coming from any direction. Make sure you can make it safely across the street before crossing.

If You Need to Talk to a Louisiana Car Accident Attorney

If you need legal advice on car accidents or driving while intoxicated (DWI), the Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers can help. We have decades of experience in Louisiana car accident and DWI law. Our attorneys will fight for your rights, and make sure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries.

Bart Bernard has offices in both Baton Rouge and Lafayette, and many locations in Louisiana. Call for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here to help you when you need it most. And there’s never a charge unless we win your case.

Additional Resources:

1. Man gets 13-year sentence in Mardi Gras day fatal hit-and-run. Nola.com. October 21, 2016. https://www.nola.com/crime/2016/10/man_nets_13_year_sentence_in_m.html.
2. Rhoden, Robert. Man racks up 5th DWI arrest after Mardi Gras hit-and-run accident in Mandeville. Nola.com. Feb. 19, 2015. https://www.nola.com/crime/2015/02/man_racks_up_8th_dwi_arrest_af.html.