Louisiana Police Increase Patrols for Drunk Drivers During Mardi Gras

As Mardi Gras season kicks up across Louisiana, local law enforcement agencies are taking additional measures to increase public safety.

Get our free mobile app

Duson police and other local police departments want to keep parades safe for everyone and remind parade goers to keep firearms at home. With the large crowds and increased alcohol consumption, a disagreement is more likely to break out, and illegally carrying a weapon at a parade adds an unnecessary danger that can be easily avoided.

Read More: Louisiana Police Issue Warning on Guns at Mardi Gras Parades 

New Orleans has also announced extra security now that Mardi Gras in the Big Easy is classified as a SEAR 1 event, making it the highest national security risk for the first time. The Super Bowl was also considered a SEAR 1 event, and the city managed to keep the city safe for locals and tourists, so it's not to say Mardi Gras isn't safe. Rather, they are making a point to increase police and National Guard presence to handle any potential threats.

Read More: Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Receives SEAR 1, Highest Security Rating 

One of the biggest safety concerns during Carnival Season is the increase in drunk drivers on the roads.

Louisiana Police Increase Patrols for Drunk Drivers During Mardi Gras

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission's 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign aims to keep motorists safe, especially during major holidays like Mardi Gras when people are consuming alcohol and other substances more frequently.

LHSC Executive Director Lisa Freeman says anyone driving impaired will be pulled over and can face up to 6 months in prison and fines up to $1,000.

"If people drink alcohol, that is their business. If they are drinking and driving, it is the public’s business because they are endangering everyone on the road. Our law enforcement partners around the state will see those impaired drivers, pull them over, and arrest them.”

WAFB reports that drunk drivers are 13 times more likely to cause a fatal car accident than non-impaired drivers.

Freeman reminds motorists that Mardi Gras is supposed to be a fun time for families and is an important part of our culture; however, drinking and driving is not.

"Carnival is a time to have fun with friends and family. It is a wonderful part of Louisiana culture. Impaired driving is not part of our culture. It is a criminal act that injures and kills children, parents, brothers, and sisters. Through Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, we are protecting those people who want to celebrate all the good things Louisiana has to offer.”