Louisiana loves Mardi Gras. But Mardi Gras is more than king cake, parades, and the quest to catch the biggest beads. It is also parties, parade route gatherings, krewe tableaus, and drinking (lots and lots of drinking). Mardi Gras 2021 is sure to look different than years in the past. In fact, most parades and large events have been called off due to public health concerns. But many people will still find ways to celebrate this holiday, so Smart Start of Louisiana hopes you’ll remember these 3 things this carnival season:

1. CELEBRATING SAFELY IS THE GOAL

Make sure you have a plan on how to get home from the festivities, and make sure this plan doesn’t include drinking and driving. You have worked hard to get your life back on track after getting a DWI, so don’t let a bad choice bring you down the wrong path again. If your blood alcohol content is higher than 0, don't drive.

2. ROAD CLOSURES AND TRAVEL DELAYS SHOULD BE EXPECTED

Even small parades mean slower moving traffic in areas surrounding the route. Parades also lead to road closures and sometimes rerouted traffic. If you have an appointment at a Smart Start of Louisiana location near Mardi Gras celebrations, make sure to plan ahead and allow some extra travel time.

3. BUSINESSES CLOSE MORE THAN USUAL

During the carnival season, “normal” business hours don’t really exist. Many Louisiana businesses close locations for the whole day due to some holidays (Lundi Gras, Fat Tuesday, Ash Wednesday….it’s basically celebration after celebration in the South). Without many parades happening in 2021, many businesses are still closing for the sake of tradition. If you need an installation or service appointment at Smart Start of Louisiana, contact us to find out if your service center will have any closures and to get on the schedule.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!

Mardi Gras season is one of the most exciting times here in Louisiana. Unfortunately, statistics show that it is also one of the most dangerous times for both drivers and pedestrians. MADD reminds us that drunk driving is still the #1 killer on our roads. Don’t be part of the scary DWI statistics. To find out how Smart Start of Louisiana is helping to separate drinking from driving, call us or fill out our contact form.