A driver was injured Tuesday night in Auburn after crashing while playing Pokemon Go.
Auburn Police responded to an accident on Owasco Street around 10:45 pm to find a vehicle that had gone off the road and struck a tree. The driver admitted to actively playing the Pokemon Go game while driving, which caused him to be distracted.
Police did not identify the driver but said he suffered minor injuries in the crash.
Released last week, Pokemon Go is a mobile game that allows smartphone users to fight digital monsters in real life as they explore their surroundings in search of virtual Pokémon characters. It has caused some safety concerns, as players travel around while looking at their phone's screen without regard to their surroundings.
In a statement, Auburn Police Chief Shawn Butler reminded players to use common sense when playing the game and to remember that personal safety should be paramount above everything else. He also offered the following suggestions:
- Do not use the application when you are operating a motor vehicle or bicycle.
- Do not trespass on private property when trying to “catch” a Pokemon.
- Be aware of your surroundings when walking and do not stare down at your phone not knowing hazards around you, like roadways, drop-offs, waterways, etc.
- Use caution when sharing your location as strangers can see your location information.
- Travel in groups in public/well lit locations.
"Luckily the driver was not seriously injured but this is an example of how easily accidents can occur when someone is engaged in the game and not paying attention," Butler said.
