Pokémon Go, a mobile game that has taken America by storm, has recently come under fire after several news stories reported game players causing traffic accidents after attempting to play the game and drive. Last Wednesday, a New York man crashed his car into a tree while trying to play and drive . More recently, a Baltimore driver crashed his Toyota Rav4 into a parked police car while playing the game. Police officials and concerned citizens fear for public safety as more reports surface of distracted drivers causing accidents while playing Pokémon Go.
How Pokémon Go Is Problematic
Pokémon Go is a mobile game that uses GPS tracking and augmented reality to engage its players searching for, catching and battling Pokémon. Players battle their Pokémon at gyms to gain experience and level up the Pokémon they’ve captured. The gyms are located all over different cities, and players are required to be within a small radius of the gym to engage in playing. Many media outlets are calling the Pokemon craze “the new texting while driving” as many players are opening the game to try and catch ‘em all while driving despite the full-screen warning before the game loads.
Did a Pokemon Go Player Injure You?
If you were injured in a car or pedestrian accident by an inattentive Pokemon Go driver, you could receive compensation for your injuries. It is illegal in New York for anyone to use their cell phone to call, text or play games while driving. In a personal injury claim, you must prove the other party failed to take reasonable duty of care. Drivers playing Pokemon Go are not only breaking the law but are also driving recklessly.
Contact our experienced Brooklyn attorney if you were injured in an accident caused by a Pokemon Go driver today.
