NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans Department of Public Works (DPW) is encouraging residents and visitors to prioritize safety when getting to, from and around parade routes. Crashes spike each year during parade season; however, people can reduce their likelihood of being involved in a crash by following these safety tips:
DRIVE SAFELY
Don’t drink and drive, and don’t get into a car with someone who is drinking and driving.
- Be a designated driver – don’t let friends and family drive drunk
- Arrive early to avoid the worst traffic congestion and expect heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic
- Expect delays before and after parades
- Motorcycle officers will be escorting floats throughout the Mardi Gras season; please refrain from driving through any float movements without permission
- Slow down! Don’t drive distracted – streets are crowded with your fellow parade goers
- Stop for people in the crosswalks and do not block crosswalks
- Keep bike lanes clear – don’t drive or park in bike lanes
- When passing a person bicycling, use care and provide at least 3 feet of space
Learn more tips on safe travel and other parade tips on the Safety and First Aid page of the NOLA Ready website.
PARK SMART
Consider car-pooling with friends to share a ride, save on gas and limit the number of people trying to find a parking spot.
- Use a taxi or ride-share services to avoid the need to find parking
- Observe the parking options and restrictions in neighborhoods; be respectful of residents and businesses located in neighborhoods along or near the parade route
- Do not park in signed “no parking” zones, within 20 feet of crosswalks and stop signs, or within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
- Do not park in front of driveways without permission of the owner
Learn more about these restrictions by visiting the Parking Rules and Regulations page on the DPW website.
TAKE TRANSIT
- Use New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) options, whether it is traveling by bus, streetcar or ferry
- Download the Le Pass app to find your route, easier payments, etc.
Learn more by visiting the Mardi Gras 2023 page of the NORTA website. This resource also provides a full listing of when and where to expect transit detours during Carnival.
RIDE A BIKE
Use a bike to get to and from parades and avoid traffic congestion and finding parking.
- Riding in groups increases visibility and safety
- Ride in the same direction of traffic and avoid riding on sidewalks
- Lock the frame and wheels of bikes to secure objects to avoid theft
- Avoid beads hanging from around the neck getting caught on handlebars
- Make sure to wear bright clothing, wear protective gear, and have a light on your bicycle
- Use Blue Bikes as a rideshare option Learn more by visiting the Blue Bikes website
Learn tips about bike riding in New Orleans by visiting the Bike Easy website.
BE SAFE WHILE WALKING TO AND AROUND PARADES
- Keep track of your group
- Plan a meeting spot in case your group gets separated
- Take a “safety selfie” of your group at the beginning of the day. That way if you can’t find someone, you have a photo of what they’re wearing
- If you can’t find your child, tell the nearest public safety official. There are also lost children stations along the route
- Stay behind barricades, out of the street, and cooperate with public safety officials
- Do not cross in front of floats
Learn more tips on safe travel and other parade tips on the Safety and First Aid page of the NOLA Ready website.
###