Many Louisiana residents look forward to the excitement and crowds that Mardi Gras draws to New Orleans every year. Usually, it is a good time enjoyed by many from all over the country, but for some, the most recent festival was a nightmare. As many as 32 people suffered unexpected personal injury after a man drove into a crowd of attendees.
A 25-year-old man recently pleaded guilty to multiple felony and misdemeanor charges related to the Mardis Gras accident. The man has had multiple hearings to process the different charges At the most recent hearing, he admitted guilt to 11 different felony charges. Reportedly, he could spend as much as 55 years in jail for the felonies charges alone. His sentence hearing has been scheduled to occur in early 2018.
Reportedly, several victims attended the hearing. One woman explained that she suffered substantial injuries after the man rammed his pickup truck into her vehicle. She says that her multiple physical injuries have resulted in chronic pain. In addition to her physical injuries, she has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. More victims are expected to testify at the sentencing hearing to explain how the young man’s actions have changed their lives.
Apart from any criminal consequences a defendant may face, impacted victims from their alleged crimes have the legal right to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. Crimes involving innocent people can result in expensive life-altering injuries. Some victims may heal from their injuries but some may continue to suffer long-term medical and emotional complications. Although it is necessary, medical treatment and therapy is expensive and can result in unexpected financial stress for victims. Some victims may be able to find some financial relief with the assistance of a personal injury attorney.
Source: U.S. News & World Report, “Guilty Plea in Crash That Hurt 32 in Mardi Gras Parade Crowd“, Oct. 27, 2017