Partner at AKD Lawyers
Practice Areas: Personal Injury, Insurance Claims
Every year, over a million people travel to New Orleans to experience the excitement of Mardi Gras. From the parades and costumes to the music and rich cultural traditions, it’s a celebration that draws both locals and tourists alike. However, behind the color and joy lies a very real concern: Mardi Gras injuries. With massive crowds, alcohol consumption, thrown objects, and moving floats, the risk of injury rises during these large-scale events.
Understanding how these injuries happen and what legal rights you have is crucial if you plan to attend. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common Mardi Gras injuries, explore who may be legally responsible, and explain the steps to take if you or a loved one gets hurt during the celebration.
Common Types of Injuries During Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras events take place across public streets and private venues, often lasting for hours in crowded, unpredictable environments. Here are some of the most frequently reported injury types:
Injuries from Thrown Objects
Beads, doubloons, coconuts, and even cabbages are sometimes tossed from floats. While it’s part of the tradition, these objects can cause eye injuries, cuts, or even head trauma when thrown with force.
Slip-and-falls on Streets and Sidewalks
Spilled drinks, debris, and uneven surfaces create hazards for both locals and tourists. Many slip-and-fall injuries during Mardi Gras happen on sidewalks, parade routes, and bar entrances.
Pedestrian Accidents Involving Floats
Each year, there are reports of floats veering off course or people getting too close to moving vehicles. These types of accidents can be severe and even fatal.
Alcohol-Related Injuries
Alcohol plays a significant role during Mardi Gras. Fights, falls, and impaired judgment often lead to injuries that could have been avoided with more caution.
Health-Related Emergencies
Long hours in the sun, dehydration, and large crowds can trigger medical issues. Heat exhaustion, panic attacks, and fainting are not uncommon.
According to the City of New Orleans, more than 1.4 million people attend Mardi Gras annually, significantly increasing the likelihood of accidents in crowded spaces.
Who may be Eligible for Mardi Gras Injuries?
Understanding who may be responsible for an injury is key when deciding whether a personal injury claim can be filed.
Negligence and Liability Under Louisiana Law
Louisiana uses a fault-based system, meaning someone can be held liable if their negligence caused their injury. Under Civil Code Article 2315, injured parties can seek damages. Article 2323 adds that compensation may be reduced if the injured person is partly at fault.
Possible Liable Parties
- Float operators and parade krewes: If a float malfunctions or a rider acts recklessly.
- City of New Orleans: If the city fails to maintain safe public spaces.
- Bar or venue owners: For over-serving alcohol or failing to maintain safe conditions.
- Private individuals: In cases of assault or reckless behavior.
What to Do if You’re Injured at Mardi Gras
If you’re hurt during the festivities, what you do next can significantly impact your recovery and legal options. Here’s what to do:
- Get Medical Help: Prioritize your health by visiting an EMS station or hospital. Even if the injury seems minor, getting medical care creates a record and prevents complications.
- Report the Incident: Notify law enforcement if a float, vehicle, or another person caused your injury. An official report strengthens any future claim.
- Gather Evidence: Take clear photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazards. Collect contact details from witnesses and write down what happened while it’s fresh in your mind.
- Save All Documentation: Keep copies of all medical records, receipts, prescriptions, and any communication with insurance companies or event organizers. These documents are essential if you pursue a personal injury claim.
Legal Options and the Claims Process
Depending on how the injury occurred, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. These claims can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
However, Mardi Gras-related cases can be more complicated. Events involve multiple parties and temporary setups, and by assigning blame, insurance firms may attempt to evade accountability.
Louisiana’s Statute of Limitations
La. Civ. Code § 3492 gives you just one year from the date of injury to bring a Louisiana personal injury claim. Acting quickly ensures you preserve your rights and gives your attorney enough time to build a strong case.
Staying Safe During Mardi Gras
While no event is risk-free, there are ways to reduce your chances of getting hurt.
Safety Tips for Parade-Goers
- Stay on sidewalks or in designated areas.
- Avoid reaching too far for throws from floats.
- Keep an eye on your group and have a check-in plan.
Tips for Participants and Drivers
- Wear proper footwear and stay hydrated.
- Remain sober if you’re operating a float or vehicle.
- Follow event guidelines and be aware of your surroundings.
In 2020, two tragic Mardi Gras float-related deaths prompted New Orleans to ban tandem floats, demonstrating how regulation evolves after high-profile accidents.
Common Mardi Gras Injuries and Legal Implications
| Injury Type | Common Cause | Liable Party | Legal Consideration |
| Head injury from throws | Beads, coconuts, etc. | Parade krewes or city | Was the throw reckless or unsafe? |
| Slip and fall | Spills, litter, uneven ground | City or property owner | Was the area safely maintained? |
| Float-related injury | Driver error, malfunction | Float operator or group | Was there negligence involved? |
| Fight or altercation | Intoxicated behavior | Individual involved | Was it provoked or avoidable? |
| Heat exhaustion | Sun, dehydration | Typically self-managed | Only actionable if venue-related |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue if a bead or coconut hits me during Mardi Gras?
Yes, if the item was thrown recklessly or unsafely. Regular throws are part of the tradition, but excessive force or dangerous objects may justify legal action.
What if a drunk person injured me during the celebration?
The intoxicated Individual can be held liable. If a bar overserved them, that establishment could also be responsible under Louisiana’s dram shop laws.
Who is responsible if I slip and fall on a parade route?
Responsibility depends on where the fall happened. If negligence caused the unsafe condition, the city, a business owner, or the event organizer could be responsible.
What should I do immediately after being injured during Mardi Gras?
Get medical care, report the incident to the police, assemble proof, and consult a personal injury attorney. These steps protect your health and legal rights.
Is there a time limit to file a claim for a Mardi Gras injury?
Yes. You have one year from the date of the injury to file a claim in Louisiana. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation.
Conclusion: Know Your Rights During Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras brings joy to millions, but safety isn’t guaranteed. From thrown objects to intoxicated crowd members, injuries can and do happen. Knowing what to do—and who may be responsible—can help defend your legal rights and health.
Please make an appointment for a free consultation with Alvendia, Kelly & Demarest Law Firm right now to find out how they can support your future.
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In 2003, after being dissatisfied with the quality of legal care for victims of car accidents, Roderick ‘Rico’ Alvendia sought to establish a new firm focused on providing high-quality legal services to aid injured victims and their families. J. Bart Kelly, sharing Rico’s passion for upholding justice, joined the firm later that year, and established a partnership.
