Just in case you’ve been on a deserted island for the past couple of weeks, Pokemon Go is the newest app top the charts. Over 5 million people downloaded the free app when it became available on July 6, 2016.
Wondering what Pokemon Go is? According to Wikipedia, “Pokémon Go is a free-to-play location-based augmented reality mobile game developed by Niantic and published by The Pokémon Company.”
“The game allows players to capture, battle, and train virtual creatures, called Pokémon, who appear on device screens as though in the real world. It makes use of GPS and the camera of compatible devices. The game is free-to-play, although it supports in-app purchases of additional gameplay items. An optional companion Bluetooth wearable device is planned for future release, thePokémon Go Plus, and will alert users when Pokémon are nearby.”
Interestingly, while Pokemon Go is being heralded for getting people outside and active, many trainers (Pokemon Go Players) are reporting injuries.
"Not even 30 minutes after the release last night, I slipped and fell down a ditch," said the Reddit user. "Fractured the fifth metatarsal bone in my foot, 6-8 weeks for recovery. I told all the doctors I was walking my dog lol ... Watch where you're going, folks!"
The Pokemon Go app itself includes a warning in the loading screen asking players to pay attention to their surroundings, but it's clear that some people are getting so excited that they forget to heed it. Niantic, which partnered with the Pokemon franchise to create the game, has some rules of the road for its other major title, “Ingress,” that may prove useful.
“Pay attention to your surroundings; you never know what beautiful or interesting things you'll see while playing the game,” the company cautions in its advice to players.
Niantic has also reminded “Ingress” players to respect real-world rules when an in-game point of interest shows up on someone’s private property -- no trespassing -- which is a good reminder for Pokemon Go players and any augmented-reality game the future may bring, too.
In a statement, The Pokemon Company said, "We are constantly looking at ways to add safety features to Pokémon GO and expect to incorporate some features based on user experience into future builds."
Our friends at PropertyCasualty365 have a great take on how your insurance can serve you well as this Pokemon Go obsession crosses the country. A blog Playing Pokemon Go? Here are 3 kinds of insurance you need released on July 15, 2016 and written by Rosalie L. Donlon, reveals how your current insurance can be really helpful if you are playing the game.
“While you’re out and about pursuing those elusive pocket monsters, rest assured that your possessions are covered if thieves break into your home. And, if someone runs off with your mobile phone, you’re in luck if you have cellphone insurance — though it might not reimburse for your lost Pokémon!”
“Also, if you accidentally trample somebody’s flowerbed while hot on the trail of a Bellossome (or a fellow player is injured in your home and decides to sue), most homeowners' and renters' policies have coverage for damage you cause to other peoples’ property and possessions as well as liability for mishaps on your property.”
“Lastly, your Pokédex may be in good order, but you might also want to consider creating an inventory of your real possessions, which can make filing a claim easier in the event of an insurable loss.”
“Hit while running down a Rotom? Depending on who’s at fault (and local statutes), you may be able to file a claim against the driver’s auto liability insurance policy.”
“Almost all states require that vehicle owners and drivers carry liability insurance to cover personal injuries to third parties. Or your own uninsured/underinsured motorists coverage may pick up the tab if not.”
“Sure, the game’s called Pokémon Go, but it’s really your data that’s in play.”
“If thieves make off with your information, many insurers will cover identity theft, either as part of a homeowners' or renters' policy or as a stand-alone policy. Identity theft insurance reimburses victims for the cost of restoring their identity and repairing credit reports and related expenses.”
Taking a break from Pokemon Go? We’re ready to answer your questions about your insurance coverage. We’re only a phone call away and can deliver the answers in moments so that you can get back to Pokemon Go.
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