Partner at Charbonnet Law Firm LLC
Practice Areas: Car Accident, Personal Injury
Spring break is a time when families, college students, and travelers across Louisiana take to the roads in search of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re heading to the bayous, beaches, or cities like New Orleans and Lake Charles, spring break often means more drivers, more distractions, and, unfortunately, more accidents.
Understanding how to stay safe on Louisiana roads during this busy season can make a big difference in your trip. This guide walks through common hazards, safe driving tips, and what to do if you’re involved in an accident during spring break.
Louisiana is full of destinations that attract families and tourists during spring break. Cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, and Shreveport offer fun and culture, while beach towns and state parks are perfect for short road trips.
With this surge in local travel, Louisiana roads become more crowded. Many drivers are on unfamiliar roads, in a rush to reach their destination, or distracted by their spring break plans. This increase in traffic—especially among inexperienced drivers and out-of-state visitors—can lead to more collisions.
According to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, motor vehicle fatalities reached a 15-year high in 2021, with nearly 1,000 deaths reported statewide.
Crash data from 2017 to 2020 shows that 40% of Louisiana’s traffic fatalities involved alcohol, making impaired driving one of the most common and preventable causes of death on the roads.
Louisiana sees a spike in car accidents during spring break due to a mix of risks. Impaired driving from alcohol or drugs, distracted driving like texting or adjusting music, and drowsy or unfamiliar drivers all contribute to crashes.
Busy tourist spots such as the French Quarter or Lake Charles can increase the danger due to increased foot traffic and crowded roads. After an automobile collision, you only have a year to submit a personal injury claim under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492.
According to the NHTSA, nearly half of all people killed in car crashes weren’t wearing seatbelts—a basic but vital safety step.
Here’s The good news is that a few easy precautions can help prevent many spring break mishaps. Before your trip, check your tires, brakes, oil, and wipers. If your car hasn’t had a recent tune-up, a quick check can help prevent trouble on the road.
Plan your route ahead of time and expect delays. Silence your phone and avoid distractions while driving. Always wear your seatbelt, follow speed limits, and never drive if you’re tired or under the influence. If alcohol is part of your plans, arrange a rideshare or designated driver.
Louisiana’s comparative fault law (La. Civ. Code Art. 2323) means your compensation may be reduced if you’re partially at fault in an accident.
Below is a quick look at common causes of spring break accidents and how to prevent them.
| Cause of Accident | Description | Prevention Tip |
| Impaired Driving | Alcohol or drug use affects judgment and reaction time | Use a designated driver or rideshare |
| Distracted Driving | Includes texting, eating, GPS use | Keep phone out of reach; pull over to handle tasks |
| Drowsy Driving | Fatigue slows reflexes and awareness | Get sufficient rest; take breaks every 2 hours |
| Unfamiliar Roads | Tourists may miss signals or turn late | Use a GPS with audio; plan your route ahead |
| Congested Tourist Areas | More pedestrians, bikes, and cars increase accident risk | Drive slower, especially in high-traffic zones |
Even when you’re being careful, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a crash during spring break, stay calm and check if anyone is hurt. Call 911 to report the accident and get help. Don’t leave the scene, even if the damage seems minor.
If it’s safe, take photos of the vehicles, road signs, damage, and anything else that may help later. Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine—some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
If the other driver flees the scene, try to remember their vehicle’s make, model, color, or license plate number. Hit-and-run accidents can be severe, and having a lawyer can help with insurance claims and investigations
Louisiana has specific laws that apply to accidents. One of the most important is the state’s comparative fault rule. If you’re found to be partly responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
You also have a short window to file a personal injury claim. In Louisiana, you typically have just one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you wait too long, you may lose your chance to recover damages.
That’s why speaking with a car accident attorney—especially one experienced with spring break accidents in places like New Orleans or Lake Charles—can help you understand your options and what steps to take next.
More drivers on the road, especially young or distracted drivers, combined with alcohol use and unfamiliar routes, create the perfect conditions for accidents.
Stay at the scene, call 911, take photos, exchange info, and see a doctor. Contact a lawyer if you have injuries or the insurance process becomes complicated.
Your compensation may be reduced under Louisiana’s comparative fault rule. If you’re 20% at fault, you may recover 80% of your damages.
Report it immediately and try to remember the vehicle details. If the driver is identified, a lawyer can help file claims through your insurance or take legal action.
Yes. Louisiana laws apply to any accidents in the state, even if you’re from out of town. You may still be entitled to compensation.
Spring break is a chance to unwind and enjoy everything Louisiana has to offer. But with more cars on the road, staying alert and making wise decisions behind the wheel becomes even more critical. Simple choices like planning, avoiding distractions, and driving sober can prevent
accidents and keep your trip on track. If you or someone you care about is injured in a car accident during spring break, understanding your legal rights is key. At Charbonnet Law Firm, LLC, we help individuals and families across New Orleans and beyond after serious accidents. You don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Our team is here to guide you toward the best possible outcome.
With over 50 years of legal experience serving families in the New Orleans area and surrounding Louisiana communities, our firm takes pride in providing clients with personalized legal services tailored to individual needs.
