Distracted driving is a common cause of car accidents. And now, there's a new distraction to worry about: Pokemon Go.
What Is Pokemon Go?
Pokemon Go is a mobile game that allows players to capture, battle, and train virtual Pokemon who appear throughout the real world. The game is free-to-play, although it supports in-app purchases of additional gameplay items. It was released in most regions of the world in July 2016.
The game is based on the Pokemon franchise, which includes anime, video games, trading cards, and more. In Pokemon Go, players use their smartphones to capture virtual creatures, called Pokemon, which appear in the real world. The game uses GPS to track the player's location and determines which Pokemon appear based on that location. Players can then battle, train, and trade their Pokemon with other players.
The primary objective of Pokemon Go is to catch as many Pokemon as possible. However, the game also includes secondary objectives, such as hatching eggs, visiting Pokestops, and completing challenges. These objectives help keep the game interesting and provide players with rewards, such as new Pokemon, items, and experience points.
Can Pokemon Go Cause Car Accidents?
Pokemon Go can cause serious accidents if players don't take appropriate precautions. The game requires players to walk around in the real world to find Pokemon, which can lead to distracted walking and dangerous situations. For example, players may cross the street without looking both ways or walk into traffic while staring at their phones. In addition, the game has been known to cause distracted driving accidents when drivers suddenly stop or fail to pay attention to other motorists.
One instance occurred in Massachusetts when 26-year-old Lamar Hickson stopped on a major highway to catch a character in the game called Pikachu. Several cars were involved in the accident but luckily no one was injured. One of the other car drivers admitted he was also playing Pokemon Go when the accident took place.
Texting and driving is illegal in South Carolina and the popularity of this new mobile app is fostering a "Pokemon and Drive" issue. It is important to follow the laws of your state and not put the lives of others and yourself in danger. Games and texting can always wait.
What Should You Do if a Pokemon Go Player Caused Your Accident?
If you or a loved one was in an accident caused by a Pokemon Go player, it is important to know your rights and what steps to take next. The first thing you should do is seek medical attention for any injuries suffered in the accident. Once you have been seen by a doctor, you should contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case.
A personal injury lawyer will evaluate your case and determine if you are eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the Pokemon Go player who caused your accident. If you are able to file a lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation for your accident-related expenses:
- Medical bills. You may be able to receive compensation for any medical bills you have incurred as a result of the accident, including emergency room treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, medication, and physical therapy. Future medical expenses can also be included.
- Lost income. If you have been unable to work because of your injuries, you may be able to receive compensation for your lost wages. This includes current wages as well as any applicable loss of future earning potential.
- Pain and suffering. You may also be able to receive compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the accident.
The statute of limitations limits how long you have to file a car accident claim. South Carolina has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits. This means you must file your lawsuit within three years of the date of the accident or else you will be barred from doing so. However, it is important to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. It takes time to build a winning case and evidence may be lost if you don't act quickly.
Have You Been Injured in a Charleston South Carolina Area Car Accident?
If you've been injured in a car accident, you should speak with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Charleston, South Carolina office directly at 843.488.2359 to schedule your consultation. We are also able to meet clients at our Conway, Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Mt. Pleasant, North Myrtle Beach, or North Charleston office locations.
