Pokémon Go quickly became the number one selling app in history within a day of its release, but the augmented-reality game has had an unexpected impact on some of the 7.5 million estimated users. Pokémon hunters have inadvertently hurt themselves or injured others in their quest to catch these virtual creatures.
The game gets users out of their comfort zone, into the fresh air and encourages socializing with others nearby. It’s been praised for helping those with agoraphobia and depression, but Pokémon Go is not free of risks. From walking into cinder blocks to leaving vehicles behind, avid Pokémon fans young and old have created dangerous situations, which have led to personal injuries. Teens in Missouri even used the record-breaking app to lure other gamers into their area and rob them. Nintendo has since pushed for users to utilize the buddy system.
If you’re obsessed with Pokémon Go like millions of other Americans, here are several ways to ensure your safety and the safety of others:
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Make sure to look up from your phone to routinely check where you are.
- Travel with other Pokémon hunters. To avoid being robbed or causing a car accident or injury, bring friends with you while you try to “catch ‘em all.”
- Don’t drive and play. Traffic violations and car accidents have occurred in Chicago and all over the country as distracted drivers swerve or exit their vehicle to capture Pokémon.
If you or a loved one has been injured because of a Pokémon Go user, please contact our personal injury lawyer in Chicago at 1-800-LAW-0300 today to schedule your consultation. Sklare Law Group, Ltd. serves clients in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding areas.