The original Pokémon craze of the 1990s has now been taken over by a bigger craze.
Thanks to its more technologically advanced version, hunting for fantasy creatures has been made more real. However, this craze has created problems of its own kind. Today, it is difficult to travel anywhere without noticing people constantly staring at a cell phone screen engrossed in the pursuit. There have been many accidents associated with the game.
Who is Playing Pokémon Go?
There are close to 25 million Pokémon Go users. The game is available as a smartphone app. According to a Forbes report, more than 60 percent of Pokémon Go users are females. Players in the age group of 18-25 constitute around fifty percent of the total players. Younger players in the age group of 13-17 make up 25 percent of the demographic.
Warnings About the Dangers of Pokémon Go
A recent CNN report highlighted the dangers that Pokemon Go may pose to children. According to the report, while the game may be a good way to get kids to become active, it also increases the risk of injury. Both adults and children can become distracted while playing the game and are getting into pedestrian and bicycle accidents and slip and fall accidents. The injuries that may result include:
- broken bones and fractures
- muscle sprains, strains, and tears
- severe cuts and lacerations
- back and neck injuries
- head injuries, including concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- spinal cord injuries
The report also highlights other dangers such as that of becoming a victim of violent crime. Parents are urged to remind their children about “stranger danger”.
Safely Playing Pokémon Go
Make Pokémon Go a shared activity with your children and ensure that your child stays safe. When you cannot be with your child, consider the following safety tips:
- Establish boundaries: Determine specific places that your child is allowed to go hunting for the fantasy creatures.
- Avoid biking: Never play Pokémon Go while biking or riding a skateboard.
- Night safety: Do not let children venture out alone at night.
- Buddy system: Encourage your child to go out in groups when playing Pokémon Go.
The Rise of Pokémon Go Accidents in Chicago
Pokémon Go accident law is now on the radar thanks to real-world incidents since the game’s release:
-
University research estimates Pokémon Go led to nearly 145,000 U.S. car accidents in its first five months—causing 29,000 injuries and 250 deaths.
-
Accidents cluster near “PokéStops.” Crash rates near these digital hotspots spiked by almost 27%.
-
In Chicago, while no fatal crashes have yet occurred, numerous local players have reported collisions, injuries, and near-misses—mirroring national trends.
-
Injuries aren’t limited to motorists—pedestrians have been hit, tripped, or wandered into dangerous places while absorbed in gameplay.
Chicago’s Top Pokémon Go Risks:
-
Distracted driving (playing while driving or stopped at lights)
-
Walking into traffic or obstacles
-
Trespassing on private property
-
Becoming targets of robbery or assault in unfamiliar places
Car Crash While Playing Pokemon Go? Call A Chicago Car Accident Attorney
If you have been involved in a car accident involving a distracted Pokémon Go player, seek legal help from a Chicago car accident attorney. Call Willens & Baez at (312) 957-4166.
Chicago Injury Laws: Who’s Liable if an Accident Happens?
Pokémon Go Accidents in Chicago: Laws, Liability & Personal Injury Claims
Pokémon Go’s augmented reality has swept through Chicago, turning streets, parks, and landmarks into digital playgrounds for players seeking elusive Pokémon. But as many have discovered, fun can turn hazardous in an instant. From distracted driving to sidewalk slips, “Pokémon Go accidents” have created a web of legal questions and real-life consequences in our city.
This guide unpacks Chicago’s accident laws related to gaming, statistical risks, and why choosing a firm like Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. can be a game-changing move if injury strikes. Need help now? Call (312) 957-4166 for a free consultation.
Pokémon Go–inspired accidents often fall under distracted driving or premises liability laws. Here’s how liability shakes out in some common scenarios:
1. Distracted Driving (Player Behind the Wheel)
-
Legal Status: Playing while driving is treated like texting—illegal and negligent.
-
Consequences: The at-fault driver (the gamer) can be found completely liable for resulting injuries and property damage.
-
Case Study: A local driver in Chicago rear-ended a car while catching Pokémon. Insurance settled in favor of the innocent party, and the distracted driver was fined for reckless driving.
2. Injured as a Pedestrian While Playing
-
Comparative Negligence: Illinois uses “modified comparative fault.” If you enter the street distracted and are struck, you may recover damages—unless you’re more than 50% at fault. Your payout is reduced by your share of blame.
-
Example: If you were 30% at fault, damages are reduced by 30%.
3. Injured on Private Property
-
Trespassing Risks: Injuries while trespassing (chasing Pokémon onto private land) make recovery difficult. Landowners generally have minimal duty to trespassers, but not none, especially for dangerous conditions.
4. Attacked or Robbed While Playing
-
No Liability for Niantic: The game’s terms of use waive most liability for its makers. Criminal acts typically fall on the perpetrator, not the game or property owner unless gross negligence is involved.
Pokémon Go Injury Accident Statistics
-
Pokémon Go led to a 27% spike in accidents near PokéStops in some cities.
-
U.S. motor vehicle deaths rose following the game’s launch, attributed partly to gaming-related distractions.
-
Chicago Police reported several injury and property damage incidents linked to game play, though serious injuries remain lower than the national average—thanks largely to early public safety campaigns.
Legal Process: After a Pokémon Go Accident in Chicago
If you’re hurt while playing—or by someone playing—Pokémon Go:
-
Seek medical attention immediately.
-
Call the police and file a report.
-
Document everything (photos, witness info, app data).
-
Avoid making statements to insurers, drivers, or property owners without legal guidance.
-
Call a Chicago personal injury lawyer to protect your rights.
FAQs: Hiring a Lawyer for a Pokémon Go Accident
Q1: Can I sue if I’m injured by a distracted Pokémon Go driver in Chicago?
Yes. Distracted driving is illegal, and the driver’s insurance should cover your damages.
Q2: If I was playing and got hurt, can I still recover damages?
Possibly—if you’re found less than 51% at fault. Your claim will be reduced based on your responsibility (comparative negligence principle).
Q3: Am I liable if I injure someone while distracted by Pokémon Go?
Yes. You can be held responsible for medical costs, property damage, and even punitive damages in some cases.
Q4: Can I sue Pokémon Go’s parent company, Niantic?
Unlikely. The game’s user agreement waives your right to sue for injuries sustained while playing. Claims are almost always against individuals, not the company.
Q5: Why hire a lawyer for a Pokémon Go accident claim?
A skilled attorney can ensure fault is fairly assessed, damages maximized, and you’re not unfairly blamed for corporate design or shared negligence.
Why Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. Is Chicago’s Top Choice
Proven Results for Real People:
-
Decades of experience with distracted driving and pedestrian injury cases.
-
Record verdicts and settlements, including state and national “Top Verdicts” and million-dollar-plus wins.
-
Renowned for aggressive advocacy and compassionate representation.
-
Frequent Super Lawyers® honorees—reserved for the top 5% of attorneys statewide.
-
Attorney Matt Willens, a former insurance executive, and David Baez, a former insurance defense attorney, know how insurers try to minimize or deny claims.
Testimonials Speak Volumes:
Clients consistently praise the firm for their communication, negotiation skills, and ability to deliver results even in tough, complex scenarios.
No Fee Unless You Win:
You never pay until your case is successful—and all costs are advanced.
Chicago Safety Tips for Pokémon Go Players
-
Never play while driving or cycling.
-
Look up frequently and watch for traffic lights, stop signs, and obstacles.
-
Use the buddy system—especially at night or in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
-
Wear visible clothing and obey pedestrian laws.
-
Avoid entering private property or restricted areas.
Don’t Let a Game Ruin Your Future
Pokémon Go has brought fun—and risk—to the streets of Chicago. When accidents happen, Illinois law protects those harmed by reckless or negligent players, but recovering damages demands legal experience and a nuanced understanding of liability.
If you or a loved one were injured in a Pokémon Go-related accident, contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. at (312) 957-4166 for a free, no-pressure consultation. Get Chicago’s most trusted firm fighting for your recovery—so you can focus on healing, not arguing with insurers.
