Technology is throwing plenty of curve balls at injury lawyers this year. Self-driving car crashes, drone-related injuries, and now auto accidents caused by the Pokémon Go app for iOS and Android devices.
There’s no disputing, this new game has taken the world by storm. Within just days of its release, Pokémon Go now boasts more active users than Twitter. The app uses players’ GPS locations to put them on a real-world map of their surroundings. Pikachu, Squirtle, and other popular Pokémon can spawn anywhere, at any time, and players are rewarded for the distance they cover looking for rare creatures.
Naturally, a game that encourages walking—and more disturbingly—driving around while looking at a phone is bound to cause chaos on city streets. And guess what… it already has. Reports abound of distracted drivers, cars slowing or stopping to catch Pokémon or collect items, and erratic driving in often densely-populated areas. As an injury lawyer, these incidents have no doubt caught your attention.
But on the flipside, as players flock to the streets, businesses are cashing in on increased foot traffic. Many are even advertising their proximity to Pokéstops—locations in the game where players can collect items and use lures to attract Pokémon.
So, you may be wondering how you and your firm can get involved in the craze surrounding Pokémon Go, a game that’s literally causing accidents. Here at cj Advertising, we believe your safest bet is, well, preaching safety itself.
Use your blog or social media to remind players that a little bit of mindfulness, common sense, and caution can go a long way toward preventing injuries. A safety-first message involving virtual fire-spewing monsters need not be boring, so have some fun with it. After all, people of all ages are buzzing about the app, and they’ll be excited if you’re embracing it too.
You may not be able to get a Charizard to spawn in your parking lot, but in a moment where the public has an insatiable thirst for Pokémon-related content, we at cj think people will listen to what you have to say. You’re a trusted advocate in your community, and your voice can help encourage Pokémon fanatics to play it safe out there.
And if the Pokémon Go craze has provided your firm with marketing or social opportunities to connect with your community, please share them with our readers in the comment section. Thanks!
