In late November 2020, the city of New Orleans moved into a new phase of its reopening plan that allowed for bars with a food license to operate at 50% capacity until 11 pm. While most tourists and locals are used to staying out until 3 am on Bourbon Street under normal circumstances, these restricted hours could lead to greater alcohol consumption in a shorter amount of time. Ultimately, this system could open itself up to any number of personal injury and liability cases.
TIPS FOR AVOIDING THE MOST COMMON LIABILITIES
Although it can’t necessarily be said that alcohol increases your likelihood of needing a personal injury attorney, the well-known social hotspots on Bourbon Street can be susceptible to these claims. From undermaintained interiors and sidewalks to drunk drivers, there are numerous reasons why someone may need to take extra care when going for a night out. Here are our best tips for some of the most common claims.
PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS
25% of the pedestrian accidents that happened in Orleans Parish in 2019 were fatal, resulting in the highest pedestrian fatality rate among the most populous parishes. Despite most of New Orleans being considered a highly walkable area, this is still a persistent issue each year.
If you are a pedestrian, here are a few things you can do to keep yourself safe on a night out:
- Do your best to cross at a designated crosswalk, and if one is not available, cross in well-lit areas after making sure there are no oncoming vehicles.
- Avoid using your cellphone or being otherwise distracted while standing near roadways.
- Try to stay on the sidewalk at all times.
TRIP AND FALLS
Millions of people are sent to hospitals each year because of trip and fall injuries. These accidents can result in something as small as minor cuts and scrapes to significant damages like broken bones or traumatic brain injuries. While business owners and cities are responsible for maintaining their properties in a way to prevent this problem, here are a few extra steps you can take:
- Wear shoes you can easily walk in. A study from 2006-2010 found that over 230 women were admitted to the emergency room for incidents involving high heels.
- Try to stay in well-lit areas where you can easily see your walkway.
- Report potholes, damaged sidewalks, broken lights and other safety hazards to the city for repair.
CAR ACCIDENTS
Orleans Parish ranked first in the state for injury crashes per 100,000 drivers in 2020. Even with fewer people on the roads throughout the year, thousands of people were injured and dozens of others killed. It is the responsibility of all motorists to prevent accidents, so here are a few tips for safe driving:
- Avoid speeding, especially in areas with a lot of foot traffic.
- At any stop sign or four-way stop, be extra cautious by looking all directions before proceeding.
- Avoid aggressive driving and actions that could be considered “road rage”.
Safety is Our Number One Priority.
As New Orleans personal injury attorneys, we have a great interest in keeping people safe. If a business, individual, or other entity is negligent in maintaining properties or operating a vehicle and it results in your injury, call (504) 475-7578 to schedule a free case evaluation.
