Who would ever think that chasing cartoonish characters while driving would be a problem? While many people don’t understand this recent craze, and have no desire to play, you may find yourself involved if someone on the road with you is playing. Already there are players injured by walking into traffic or some other hazard while intently looking at their smartphones as they try to “catch” the Pokémon characters. Now there are people causing traffic distractions – and potentially serious accidents – by chasing these mythical characters while driving.
TxDOT, via their official Facebook page, stated:
“Y’all. Please don’t make us have to create a campaign called “Don’t Pokemon-Go and Drive.” We know you have to catch them all, but only look for Pokemon when you are not behind the wheel. Also, don’t stop traffic just for PokeStops, and don’t cross the street without paying attention.”
#WeShouldntHaveToTellYouThis #TalkTextCrash #PokemonGo
Evidently they do have to tell drivers as they created a social media campaign about this issue.
For those who are just learning of this phenomenon, it may sound like a passing fad, and hopefully it is, but players have invaded not only streets, but private property and respected places such as Arlington National Cemetery and Auschwitz. Results of this intense focus on a small screen could prove deadly. If you see someone staring at their phone and wandering aimlessly, stay clear of them. If you are one of the players and are driving while hunting the next Pokémon, think of the real danger for you and others and just say Pokémon NO!
