Massachusetts: Pokemon Go app and distracted driving accidents

Driving along any Massachusetts roadway requires both skill and concentration. In addition to being able to properly operate the vehicle, the driver must be able to safely navigate the various obstacles that may present themselves. For example, drivers need to be aware of the other vehicles on the road and the side of the road, pedestrians walking along the roadway and even children riding bikes and darting in and out of traffic. Distracted driving accidents have proven to be a problem with drivers who chose to pay attention to their cell phones and drive at the same time.

Texting while driving has been an on-going problem; however, the new Pokemon Go app is already proving to be a concern. This new game requires the individual to be looking at their cell phone screen while searching for Pokemon. Some individuals are becoming addicted to the game and playing it at every opportunity – including while driving.

Drivers already know that texting while driving is dangerous; in fact, there are laws in place to prevent this from happening. While texting may only require a brief glance at the phone, Pokemon GO requires the player to concentrate on the phone screen in order to find the Pokemon. Several car accidents have already been attributed to this new game app.

Many across Massachusetts enjoy playing games on their cell phones. However, when this game playing is combined with driving, distracted driving accidents can occur. Individuals or families who suffer loss and/or tragedy as a result of this type of accident will want to pursue which legal options are available to them.

Source: westernmassnews.com, “Pokemon Go distracting drivers on the road”, Jennifer Martinez and Jamie Leslie, July 20, 2016