5 Mardi Gras Parade Safety Tips

Mardi Gras is just around the corner. If you’re planning on attending any parades or celebrations along the Gulf Coast, it’s important to be prepared to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Every year, people in Alabama, New Orleans, and other Mardi Gras-celebrating states get injured during parades or other festivities. That’s because parades draw thousands of revelers, and they all pack into small areas. Combine that with a constant procession of moving vehicles and thrown beads, and the risk of injuries can skyrocket.

Follow These Tips to Stay Safe During Mardi Gras

You can protect yourself and your family by keeping these safety tips in mind:

• Watch where you’re walking—It can be difficult to see where you’re going in the sea of people that Mardi Gras attracts, but it’s important to keep your eyes peeled for potential hazards, including curbs and debris.
• Don’t drink and drive—If you plan on consuming alcohol before or after the parade, be sure to arrange safe rides. Using public transportation, a ride sharing app, or a designated driver can save your life and the lives of others.
• Stay out of the street—People can get seriously injured or even killed by parade floats. Never cross barriers and never walk into the street during a parade.
• Don’t pick up thrown beads—Beads are meant to be caught—not picked up off the ground. Bending over to pick up beads puts your hands and fingers at risk of being crushed or trampled.
• Keep beads away from small children—Necklaces, bracelets, and other bead-containing items can easily break apart. That puts small children at risk of swallowing or inhaling beads—which is potentially life-threatening.

If you or someone you love gets injured because of someone else’s negligence at a Mardi Gras parade, the Alabama personal injury lawyers at Caldwell, Wenzel & Asthana are here to help. Call us today.