New York State DMV Urges Drivers Not to “Catch ‘Em All” While Driving
Citing a growing number of car crashes related to playing Pokémon Go behind the wheel, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, along with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, recently issued a statement reminding drivers not to play the game and to focus on the road. This was reported by the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle.
Since the game launched on July 6, there have been pedestrian-related accidents as a result of people being distracted by the game but now, many people are bringing their mobile devices with them in their vehicles so they can “catch ‘em all.” Here in New York State, a 28-year-old man became distracted while playing Pokemon Go and ran into a tree. Insurance Journal reported that the driver drifted out of his lane before crashing his brother’s car. He suffered minor injuries. Police cited him for using a mobile device while driving and failing to stay in his lane.
In 2011, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law a bill that prohibits the use of portable electronic devices while driving. This includes holding a device (such as a cell phone) in your hand, talking or texting, reading and sending emails, taking and sending photos and videos, and playing games.
The DMV stated in the release that pedestrian safety is also a concern. According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, approximately 300 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle accidents — making up more than 25% of motor-vehicle-related fatalities — and 15,000 were injured between 2009 and 2013. Sixty-one percent of these crashes were the fault of the driver, with the top two contributing factors being driver inattention and failure to yield right of way.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle or pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can advise you of your legal rights and remedies. The lawyers at Levine & Slavit, PLLC represent clients in personal injury and motor vehicle accident cases and will fight for your right to compensation. Call (888) LAW-8088 for a consultation today.
