Licensed in Missouri and Kansas

Sure, Play Pokemon Go (Just Not While You're Driving!)

The Verge published an article recently about the rise in traffic fatalities caused by people playing the game Pokemon Go.

The game is available on smartphones and features elements in real world locations. Players catch pokemon with their phone that are found in actual places.

The article suggests that during the height of its popularity, car crashes stemming from the game’s use caused $2 billion to $7.3 billion in damages nationwide.

For instance, in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, reports showed during the 148 days after Pokemon was released, 286 additional crashes occurred in the county, compared to the same period before. Of these, 134 were near pokéstops (a key component of the game that allows you to stock up on supplies).

Although you’re supposed to walk to pokéstops, a lot of people drive to them and got out of the car to get the needed supplies. Economists came to the conclusion that the number of crashes was much higher near these pokéstops, suggesting that the crashes were caused by the distraction surrounding people getting out of their car while playing the game.

What Pokemon Go Can Teach Us

Distracted driving is an epidemic problem and it doesn’t just include texting or talking on the phone while driving. A phone has many apps that are hard to resist. Facebook, Snapchat, Spotify, Pokemon Go and other apps pull motorist’s attention away from the road.

Unfortunately, distracted driving fatalities continue to rise at a greater percentage than those for drunk driving, speeding and failing to wear a seatbelt.

You can be part of the solution. Ending distracted driving begins with you. When you drive, just drive. That decision could save your life, the life of your passengers, another motorist, even a pedestrian or bystander.

Your decision to stop driving distracted can greatly impact you and your loved one’s safety. Check out this blog post on 7 easy ways you can stop distracted driving.

Categories: