On July 6 a brand new craze swept the nation. The beloved childhood 90’s cartoon, Pokémon, has now become an interactive game you can take to the streets. The game consists of a multitude of activities from being able to purchase poke balls (device used to catch the mythical characters known as Pokémon), to battling your brand new buddies at neighboring gyms. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Though we understand your need to be the very best, there are dangers attached to the now widely loved gaming application that can result in personal injury.
Pokémon No-Go and Drive
Having mostly attracted individuals in their early and late twenties, many of those who play the game are also drivers and operators of vehicles. We can begin to see why this is a bit of an issue. Trying to maneuver your phone to catching these rare, mythical beasts while keeping both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road can prove to be hazardous. Even AAA has please asked that you not Pokémon and drive, as multiple car accidents have been the result of people who just can’t put that phone down. That isn’t all.
Don’t Become a Pokémon Go Target
The gaming app has also attracted younger children as well, who go out into their neighborhoods and nearby areas to search for these Poke critters. Now it’s all well and good when they remain close to home, however sometimes that isn’t always the case. The game features a map (powered by Google) where all the poke stops (an area to collect unlimited items) are located. These can be anywhere; including down a dark alleyway next to a sketchy building. Reports have been made of individuals using the Poke Stop map in order to come across young children to kidnap or even adults to mug. It’s best to be cautious when choosing one.
Although the game does clearly state to remain alert and attentive to your surroundings, not everyone observes these cautions in the quest for the next big catch. Aside from the car wrecks and muggings, players have just been wandering aimlessly into objects causing injuries. Scuffs, scrapes, bumps, and bruises are now plaguing a generation of individuals and the number of careless accidents are increasing.
Pokémon Go accidents can easily be avoided by taking the following precautions:
- Don’t play the game while driving.
- Monitor children playing the game at all times.
- Be vigilant of your surroundings. Look before you explore.
- Buddy up with other players. There’s safety in numbers.
- If you do go on a solo chase, let someone know where you’ll be.
Stay safe and have fun catching them all. In the event that you have experienced an accidental injury or car wreck as a result of someone playing the Pokémon Go game, feel free to contact us for a free consultation.