Pokemon Go Craze Already Leading to Injuries

Jul 19,2016

While many are touting the merits of the new “Pokemon Go” game craze, law enforcement and other organizations are stressing the importance of safety when it comes to catching Pokemon on your smartphone. Numerous injuries, including cuts, sprains and even a poisonous snake bite, have been reported since the game was released earlier this month.

The augmented-reality game requires players to look down at their phones to locate Pokemon and “Pokestops,” which can be hazardous if players are not looking up from their phones while walking—or worse, while driving. The game is being praised for getting gamers out of their houses and exercising to find Pokemon. It even rewards players when they walk a certain number of kilometers. However, the danger arises when players are not paying attention to their surroundings. Not only is there a risk of injury from falling or tripping, but predators have already used the game to lure players to specific areas to rob them.

In response to Pokemon Go’s popularity, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and local nonprofit Christopher’s Clubhouse both offered tips for playing safely on their Facebook pages. Here’s a roundup of the tips:

Pay close attention to your surroundings.
Don’t play while driving.
Don’t stop in the middle of the road and look both ways before crossing the road.
Set boundaries for children on where they are allowed to go to look for Pokemon.
Don’t stare continuously at your phone while walking. Look up!
Always accommodate children playing the game instead of letting them go off on their own.

“The Pokemon Go craze is only the latest reason to remind everyone to please exercise caution while using smartphone technology when you’re in transit,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

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