Ultimate Mardi Gras Guide

The vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras in New Orleans brings joy and excitement to roughly 1.4 million people every year. But amidst the revelry, accidents can, and often do, happen. If you find yourself injured during a parade, knowing your rights and next steps is crucial. This guide explores common Mardi Gras injuries, recommends safety tips and resources, summarizes local rules and etiquette, and provides an overview of the legal landscape of Mardi Gras injuries, empowering you to navigate potential claims and seek fair compensation.

Common Mardi Gras Injuries

• Parade-watching Injuries:
  • Floats: Spectators are often allowed to get very close to moving floats. Being struck or run over by a moving float can lead to serious injury or death.
  • Thrown Objects: The tradition of throwing beads, coconuts, shoes, and other items from floats adds excitement but may also result in injuries. Catching or retrieving thrown objects may lead to eye or hand injuries or even concussions.
  • Falls from Ladders: Many parade-goers, especially children, use ladders for a better view. However, falls from these elevated perches are not uncommon and can result in severe injuries.
  • Crowd Surges: The excitement of the crowd can sometimes lead to surges forward, causing people to be pushed or trampled. This can result in injuries ranging from bruises to more severe traumas.
• Float-participation Injuries:
  • Falls from Floats: Riders on floats are at risk of falling. This can happen due to sudden stops, uneven surfaces, or wet surfaces. Riders are most at risk when they fail to wear their safety harnesses or when they disconnect from thier harnesses to use the restroom.
  • Returned Throws: Parade-goers may throw items back to the floats even though this behavior is not allowed. Unsuspecting riders can get struck and injured.
  • Sudden Stops: Floats may come to abrupt halts, causing participants to lose balance and potentially fall.
  • Tree Limbs and Electrical Lines: Many double-decker floats come dangerously close to tree limbs and hanging electrical lines. Riders that are distracted by the parade festivities or focused on throwing to the crowd can be severely injured or even killed as a result.
• Car Accidents:
  • Drunk drivers: The festive atmosphere sometimes encourages overindulgence, leading to an increased risk of drunk driving incidents.
  • Closed Roads: Parade routes cause traffic to be rerouted and the closure of main thoroughfares leading to motorist confusion and potential accidents.
  • Crowded streets: The influx of pedestrians and vehicles in narrow streets increases the likelihood of collisions, especially when combined with distracted driving and out-of-towners unfamiliar with the area.
  • Distracted driving: The excitement of traveling to and from the parade with family and friends can often cause drivers to become unfocused. Drivers may also be using their phones to communicate or navigate, leading to distraction and accidents.
  • Non-local Drivers: Mardi Gras draws people from all over the world. As locals know, driving in New Orleans is an acquired skill. Avoiding street cars, pot holes, and crossing the neutral ground can be challenging non-locals.
• Alcohol-related Injuries:
  • Over-Indulgence: The festive atmosphere of Mardi Gras can sometimes lead to excessive alcohol consumption. Over-indulgence can result in impairment in judgment, coordination, and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, and other injuries.
  • Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, and excessive drinking can contribute to dehydration. In the lively Mardi Gras environment, where extended periods of celebration are common, dehydration becomes a concern. It can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and in severe cases, more serious health complications.
  • Assaults: Unfortunately, increased alcohol consumption may also contribute to an uptick in altercations and assaults.

Official New Orleans Mardi Gras Rules & Laws

• No Nudity: You’ve probably seen or heard about the way some people come by beads. Police officers might be somewhat lenient about that sort of behavior on Bourbon Street, but it isn’t tolerated along the parade routes. Keep all your clothes on!
• No Public Urination: You can face severe consequences for urinating in the trees along parade routes or any other public areas. You can find some public restrooms along the routes of day parades, especially near Lafayette Square.
• Never Throw Anything: Parade spectators are not permitted to throw any object in the direction of floats, band members, or any parade participant.
• No Glass: Glass containers are prohibited on the parade route.
• Barricades: Do not cross the barricades for any reason.
• Do Not Follow: Never follow behind floats, bands, or any other official parade participant.
• No Drones: Federal Aviation Administration recommends that drones never be flown over groups of people, public events, or large gatherings.
• Pets: All dogs must be secured with a leash, as well as a muzzle.
• No Underage Drinking: Uniformed and undercover police officers will patrol the parade route to identify and arrest persons engaging in, or facilitating, underage drinking.
• No Fencing: Do not rope off areas of the neutral ground, public sidewalks, or other public property. It is prohibited by law.
• Ladders: Place ladders at least six feet back from the street curb. Do not fasten ladders together. Do not leave ladders on the neutral ground or along curbs and sidewalks overnight. Anything left will be thrown away.
• Grills: Place grills at least six feet back from the street curb. Do not put hot coals in public litter cans or on the neutral ground. They are a fire hazard. Do not leave grills on the neutral ground or along curbs and sidewalks overnight.
• Tents: Only shade tents are allowed. No fully enclosed tents or tents with side panels are allowed. Place tents at least six feet back from the street curb. Do not cook within 10 feet of a tent. Do not leave tents on the neutral ground or along curbs and sidewalks overnight.

Safety Tips

• Beads: Don’t pick up beads that have fallen on the street or ground. Picking up a bead or throw from the street puts you in direct line with the tires of the tractors or the floats. Also, the streets of New Orleans during Mardi Gras can get… Well, let’s just say “unsanitary.”
• Keep Your Cellphone Charged: Ensure your phone is fully charged before heading out and consider bringing a portable charger. Having a charged phone is essential for staying connected, accessing maps, and reaching out in case of emergencies.
• Sunglasses: Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from the sun but can also shield them from thrown objects during parades.
• Establish a Meeting Point: If attending with a group, designate a meeting point in case anyone gets separated. Ensure that everyone knows the location and can easily find it in the crowded environment.
• Avoid Driving: Given the potential for road closures, increased traffic, and the celebration atmosphere, consider using alternative transportation methods. Utilize public transportation, rideshare services, or have a designated driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
• Do Not Cross the Barricades: Respect barricades and designated parade areas. Crossing barricades can pose serious risks, including injury from moving floats and interference with parade logistics.
• Stay Alert: Be vigilant and attentive to your surroundings. Stay aware of the activities around you, including moving floats, vehicles, and the general crowd dynamics. Avoid distractions like excessive phone use to maintain situational awareness.
• Know Your Area: Familiarize yourself with the parade routes, nearby law enforcement, and nearby medical and other facilities. Knowing your surroundings enhances your ability to navigate and respond to any unexpected situations.
• Drink Responsibly: Celebrate responsibly by pacing your alcohol consumption. Alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated. Being mindful of your limits helps prevent over-indulgence and its associated risks.
• Be Courteous to Officers: Show respect and cooperation towards law enforcement officers and event organizers. Follow their instructions, and if you have concerns or issues, address them calmly and appropriately.
• Gloves: Wearing gloves can offer protection when catching throws from floats, reducing the risk of abrasions or injuries. Choose durable and comfortable gloves that allow for easy movement.
• Personal Protection: Consider personal protection items like hand sanitizers, tissues, and face masks, especially in the context of public health considerations. Also consider personal protection items such as mace, tasers, and other items designed to deter attackers.
• Sun Protection: For day parades, apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun. Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for additional sun protection.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and take necessary precautions. Move to a more secure location or seek assistance if needed.

Local Mardi Gras Etiquette

• Bead Snatching: Never snatch someone else’s catch. If the rider wants to throw you something from the float, they’ll make eye contact with you, usually point to you, and throw in your direction. Also, never reach over a kid to catch a throw — that’s just mean.
• Staking Out: Some parade-goers go through great lengths to stake out “their spot” along the parade route with tarps, tents, sofas, tape, paint, etc. — whatever comes in handy. Mardi Gras is a shared celebration so this type of behavior is frowned upon. Also, roping off territory is against the rules (see above).
• Don’t Move Stuff: There will be empty chairs or ladders or unattended tents or other items along the parade route. We guarantee the owners will be right back. Don’t move their stuff.
• Smoking: Everyone attends Mardi Gras to have a good time. However, that may take different forms for different people. Smoking (anything) can be abrasive to those around you, especially those with young children. Be respectful if you choose to smoke.

New Orleans Parade Route Resources

• Police: Police officers are typically stationed at every intersection along the parade route. However, the NOPD will have stations open on:
  • St. Charles Avenue & Napoleon Avenue
  • St. Charles Avenue & Jackson Avenue
  • Canal Street & Baronne Street
• First-aid Stations: On parade days, first aid-stations are open one hour before the first float of the first parade and until crowds disperse. First-aid stations are located on:
  • St. Charles Avenue & Louisiana Avenue
  • St. Charles Avenue & St. Andrew Street
  • St. Charles Avenue & Howard Avenue (Harmony Circle)
  • St. Charles Avenue & Canal Street
  • North Hennessey Street & Orleans Avenue (Feb. 10 only)
  • North Broad Street & Canal Street (Feb. 10 only)
• Public Restrooms: The Department of Property Management provides nearly 550 portable restrooms for public use along the parade route. View a map of restroom locations at routewise.nola.gov.
• OHL Sobering Center: Odyssey House Louisiana (OHL) oversees the Sobering Center at 732 North Claiborne Ave., ensuring its continuous operation 24 hours a day, all year round, including the Mardi Gras period. The Sobering Center is a facility where individuals under the influence can voluntarily seek recovery from immediate acute impairment, receiving care from trained staff. Staff members at the Sobering Center closely monitor individuals and offer opportunities for accessing higher levels of care, such as medically assisted detox or substance use treatment. For those needing transportation to and from the Sobering Center, the Outreach van can be reached at (504) 439-5941.
• Sober Safe Spots: Avenues Recovery encourages individuals in recovery to embrace the festive spirit and cultural richness of Mardi Gras while maintaining their dedication to sobriety. Originating from Avenues Recovery alumni, the Sober Safe Spot provides a welcoming environment for residents to actively participate in the joy of Mardi Gras alongside like-minded members of the recovery community, their families, and friends. Conveniently situated along the parade route in New Orleans and Metairie, the Sober Safe Spot will be open from Friday, Feb. 2, through Tuesday, Feb. 13. It serves as a warm and inclusive space for everyone involved in or supporting recovery. In New Orleans, locate the Sober Safe Spot near Napoleon Avenue & St. Charles Avenue, identifiable by a white flag.

Potential Claims

We hope you have a safe and enjoyable Mardi Gras, but if you are injured, here are some common ptoential claims for recovery:

• Negligence: If your injury was caused by someone else’s carelessness, you may have a claim. This could involve parade organizers, float operators, individuals throwing objects, or even city officials responsible for crowd safety.
• Premises liability: If you’re injured on public or private property due to unsafe conditions, you may have a claim against the owner.
• Product liability: If a defective product, like a bleacher or barricade, contributes to your injury, you may have a claim against the manufacturer.

Compensation for Injury Victims

If you are injured, you may be entitled to compensation to include:

• Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical bills related to your injury.
• Lost wages: Compensation for income you lose due to your injury.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress caused by the injury.
• Property damage: Reimbursement for damaged belongings.

Louisiana Mardi Gras Immunity Law

• La. R.S. 9:2796 states if you attend or participate in parades between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight and are hit by traditional items thrown by the parade participants, such as beads, cups, coconuts, or doubloons, you assume the risk of getting hit. In other words, you cannot sue. However, you can still pursue legal action if your injury was a direct result of the organizers’ deliberate and reckless behavior or gross negligence.
• Reckless or Gross Behavior – Gross negligence has been defined as “the want of even slight care and diligence which even careless men are accustomed to exercise.” Gross negligence has also been termed the “entire absence of care and the utter disregard of the of prudence, amounting to complete neglect of the rights of others.”
• Notable Prior Cases
  • Zulu Coconut: A spectator watching the Zulu parade was hit in the head with a coconut. The court ultimately dismissed her case citing the Mardi Gras Immunity Statute.
  • Float Fall: The Mardi Gras Immunity Statute was again upheld when a rider was injured by another drunk rider.
  • Endymion Bead Bag: An Endymion parade-goer was knocked unconscious by a full bag of beads. The court dismissed her case, also citing the Mardi Gras Immunity Statute.

Who Can You Sue

There are several parties who may be liable for injuries sustained during a Mardi Gras parade. These parties could include:

• Float Builders
• Float Operators
• Float Drivers
• Mardi Gras Krewes and Organizations
• The City in which the Parade took place.

While these parties are protected by the Mardi Gras Immunity Statute, you may still be entitled to bring a claim for reckless or gross behavior.

What To Do If You’re Injured During Mardi Gras

• Seek medical attention immediately: Prioritize your health and safety. If your injury requires medical attention, don’t hesitate to seek help. Locate the nearest first aid station, paramedics, or call emergency services if needed.
• Report the incident: Report the injury to law enforcement or property owners, depending on the situation.
• Gather evidence: Take note of the circumstances surrounding your injury. Document details such as the location, time, and any contributing factors. Take photographs, if possible. If there are witnesses, try to obtain their contact information.
• Contact a personal injury lawyer: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.

How Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help

A personal injury lawyer can:

• Investigate the cause of your injury: Gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and determine the legal strength of your claim.
• Handle complex insurance claims: Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Fight for your rights in court: If necessary, represent you in court to maximize your recovery.

Mardi Gras is a time for celebration, but your safety comes first. By understanding your rights and seeking legal guidance if necessary, you can ensure a just outcome if you’re unfortunate enough to experience an injury. Malvin Law represents not only New Orleans residents who have been injured but also victims who live out of state. Our attorneys are intimately familiar with state and local laws and can help you resolve your claim.

Additional Resources:

• Parade Tracker
• NewOrleans.com Ultimate Mardi Gras Guide
• New Orleans RouteWise – see routes, first aid stations, recycling hubs, and public toilets