As Pokémon Go fever takes hold across the country, Insurance Ireland has advised users not to get so swept up they have an accident.

Given the level of attention required by players of the game, there may be a risk of people making themselves vulnerable to accidents. To help, insurers are reminding customers to consider the following advice for safe phone use:

• Don’t drive and play – The RSA has said distracted driving could be a factor in as many as 20-30% of all collisions. Don’t run afoul of the law and don’t add to the risk of serious accident on our roads
• Be aware of your surroundings – there is a higher risk of slip and trip accidents if you don’t pay attention
• Be alert to those around you – displaying your mobile phone in public increases the risk of theft, so be careful about when and where you do it

Kevin Thompson, CEO of Insurance Ireland, said:

“Anyone using their phones for gaming should always have their wits about them, watch out for hazards and of course never play while driving.

While insurers will be there to help customers when they have an accident, it’s best if risks are avoided in the first place, so players are advised to follow these helpful guidelines as they try to catch em’ all”.

Ends.