Numerous news outlets throughout the United States are reporting on the tragic DUI accident that occurred at a Mardi Gras parade this past weekend. According to a news report by ABC News, the 25-year-old suspect has been charged with two counts of first-degree negligent vehicular injuring, one count of reckless operation of a vehicle, and one count of hit-and-run driving causing serious injury. Prosecutors told the magistrate judge that an additional 19 charges could be filed against the suspect.
CNN reported that the alleged drunk driver had a BAC of .232% which is well over the legal limit of .08 percent in Louisiana. The driver apparently hit two vehicles before plowing into the parade crowd near Carrollton Avenue and Orleans Avenue. The crash occurred during the Krewe of Endymion parade, one of the most popular Mardi Gras parades.
As a result of the DUI accident, 21 people were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Seven other accident victims declined to be transported to the hospital for treatment. Accident victims included several children, one as young as 3 years old, and adults in their 40s. A police officer was one of the victims but is reported to be in good spirits.
The magistrate set bond at $125,000 and also added house arrest and an ankle monitor as a condition of bail. At the time of the report, the suspect remained in custody.
DUI Accidents During Mardi Gras
DUI accidents are not uncommon in New Orleans during Mardi Gras season. Many people enjoy alcohol to excess during Mardi Gras. Even though police and city officials advise those celebrating to refrain from driving while intoxicated, many people choose to ignore the warnings and get behind the wheel after drinking too much. Unfortunately, this puts everyone, pedestrians included, in danger.
There was nothing the pedestrians in the above DUI accident could have done to avoid being injured. However, if you are driving and you see a drunk driver, you can take steps to protect yourself and others. First, put as much distance between you and the driver as possible. Have someone in the vehicle call 911 to report the suspected drunk driver to authorities. Never try to stop a drunk driver yourself — call 911 to report the drunk driver and let authorities handle the matter.
Call a NoLA DUI Accident Attorney
If you or a family member is injured by a drunk driver, you have the right to recover compensation for your injuries. Even though the driver may be convicted of drunk driving, you must still prove he or she caused the crash that resulted in your injuries. For that reason, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced NoLA DUI accident attorney to help you with the legal case.
You may be entitled to receive compensation for your lost wages, property damage, medical expenses, emotional stress, and physical pain. However, you first must file a claim. Let our attorneys help you with your claim and fight for your right to receive full compensation for your injuries.
Call Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to schedule a free legal consultation with a NoLA DUI accident attorney. We accept most cases on a contingency fee basis meaning you don’t pay any attorney fees until we win your case.