The Washington State Patrol said today they cited a 28-year-old driver for causing a collision after he admitted he was distracted by the Pokémon Go App. WSP said this was the first distracted driving collision reported to the them since Pokemon Go launched earlier this month.
According to a WSP news release, on Monday July 18, 2016, a driver of a Honda was traveling eastbound on SR 202 near 332nd in Fall City, going the posted speed limit, when he crashed into the rear of a Chevy sedan.
The female driver of the Chevy had stopped while attempting to make a left turn when her car was hit. Neither the female driver nor her young son suffered any injuries.
Both cars were towed from the scene. WSP stated the driver of the Honda admitted to being distracted because he was focusing on his Pokémon Go App.
Washington State Patrol urges gamers to consider safety over their high score. Below are safety tips to consider before attempting to become a Pokémon master:
- Do not trespass! Please don’t be poking out of bushes at WSP facilities or anyone else’s private property…especially at night as it will most likely trigger security or cause police to respond.
- Please don’t catch and drive, it’s more dangerous than texting while driving.
- If you’re on your way to a PokéStop, know your surroundings and pay attention to where you’re going and who’s around you.
