Drunk Driving Tragedies: Fighting for Victims on Bourbon Street

About 18 million people visit Bourbon Street in New Orleans every year. Likewise, one-third of auto collisions in Louisiana are alcohol-related. When you add in the Mardi Gras party atmosphere and the open alcohol container law, it’s a perfect recipe for drunk driving tragedies. Drunk driving tragedies on Bourbon Street not only leave innocent victims in their wake, but also present a range of complex legal issues that demand immediate attention. At Egenberg Trial Lawyers, we, as New Orleans car accident lawyers, mourn the recent Bourbon Street drunk driving tragedies and firmly stand with the victims.

Fourth of July Drunk Driving Crash

In a heart-wrenching tragedy, a Fourth of July celebration turned into a nightmare on Bourbon Street as three people lost their lives and eight others were injured by a drunk driver. The victims, identified as Herman Pinkney, Lucille Pinkney, and Ana Morel, were honored at a vigil where the community came together to pray for them and their grieving families. The alleged drunk driver, Daniel Hyden, drove his pickup truck into a crowd inside Corlears Hook Park, leaving a trail of devastation and grief. A memorial with flowers, candles, and pictures of the victims were set up on-site by grieving friends, family, and community members.

Drunk Driver Going the Wrong Way on Bourbon Street

In yet another shocking incident from 2019, a man with a blood alcohol content of .416, five times the legal limit, drove the wrong way down Bourbon Street while accelerating towards pedestrians. This BAC level is high enough to put the driver in a coma or cause him to just die suddenly. Although some criticized the method police used to stop his car (they shot him in the stomach), experts argue that in such a fast-paced situation, alternative methods may not have been as effective in preventing further harm. The driver, 42-year-old Eric Kullander of New Orleans, was charged with one count of reckless operation of a vehicle, resisting an officer, aggravated flight from an officer, and going the wrong way on a one-way roadway.

The Difficulties of Driving Around the French Quarter

Due to narrow streets, one-way traffic, and the constant influx of pedestrians and partygoers, navigating Bourbon Street and the surrounding area is tricky. As New Orleans car accident lawyers, here are some key points to consider:

• Parking options in the French Quarter are limited. Consider alternative transportation like cabs or streetcars, especially if planning to drink alcohol.
• There are no bike lanes in the French Quarter meaning drivers and bicyclists must share the road. If you’re on a bike, we recommend using alternate routes wherever possible.
• Low visibility at intersections is yet another safety barrier. Approach with caution.
• Obstacles like intoxicated pedestrians and lost or confused tourists also pose hazards, especially during peak hours on Bourbon Street.
• Know that driving through Jackson Square is illegal and can cause damage to vehicles because of the uneven cobblestones.

Louisiana’s Open Container Laws

New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife and, yes, drive-thru daiquiri shops, has specific regulations regarding open containers and public drinking. While the city allows drinking in public under certain conditions, there are some restrictions. Here are some crucial points:

• Louisiana’s open container law prohibits drivers and passengers from having open containers or consuming alcohol in a vehicle on public roads.
• Public intoxication can result in tickets or arrests by the New Orleans Police Department, so consume alcohol responsibly and avoid any rowdy behavior.
• Although Louisiana does not have laws specifically prohibiting open containers in public, most cities in the state do not allow drinking on the street.
• In the city of New Orleans, plastic containers are a requirement for public consumption and you are prohibited from leaving the French Quarter with an open container.
• Passengers in buses, trolleys, courtesy vehicles, motor homes, parade floats, and privately-owned limousines driven by professional drivers may have open containers.
• Drive-thru daiquiri shops are popular in New Orleans, but please be mindful that drinking and driving laws still apply.

Why Drunk Driving Victims Need to Lawyer Up as Soon as Possible:

In the aftermath of a drunk driving tragedy, the sooner you have a respected, experienced, hard-working New Orleans car accident attorney in your corner, the better. Here’s why:

• Knowledge of the legal system: Navigating the intricacies of Louisiana’s legal system requires expertise and experience. A skilled attorney understands the nuances of drunk driving cases and can guide you through the process.
• Protecting your rights: The aftermath of a drunk driving tragedy can be overwhelming, and insurance companies may attempt to settle for less than what you deserve. A competent attorney will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
• Seeking justice for victims: By pursuing legal action, you are not only seeking compensation for yourself but also advocating for justice for the victims and their families. Working with an attorney ensures that their voices are heard and that those responsible are held accountable.
• Building a strong case: In order to hold the responsible parties accountable, it is essential to gather evidence, reconstruct the accident scene, and establish negligence. An attorney can help collect the necessary evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.

Contact a Trusted New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer!

If you or a loved one was injured by a drunk driver on Bourbon Street, Canal Street, or any of the other busy streets of New Orleans, the insurance company is hoping you won’t hire a lawyer so they can make you the lowest possible settlement offer. At Egenberg Trial Lawyers, our team of savvy, passionate, dedicated New Orleans car accident lawyers wants to stand firmly against drunk driving with you. You have rights! Don’t buy the noise when the insurance company tells you that hiring a lawyer will “complicate” things—it will only complicate things for them! You are entitled to financial compensation, and it’s our goal to help you get the maximum amount possible. To set up a free consultation with one of our attorneys today, contact our office now.