Pokémon 'no-go' while driving warns RAC

The RAC is warning pedestrians and drivers not to get "caught in the Pokémon mist" and ignore their own safety while walking near roads.

RAC road safety spokesman, Pete Williams, said: "The Pokémon GO revolution could take the illegal use of hand-held mobile phones at the wheel to another level.

"It has to be 'Pokémon no-go' when driving but it is just as important that pedestrians don't get caught in the Pokémon mist and find themselves stepping into the path of danger.

“The risks are obvious but this feels like a whole new level of gaming addiction and yet another reason for people to be glued to their smartphones instead of looking where they are going.

“The game is proving massively popular with children and adults alike and is an encouragement for people to get out and explore their locality, and beyond, in their search for Pokémon characters but it is critical that drivers are not tempted to have the app running on their mobile phones when driving.”

“Pokémon GO may well be welcome entertainment for children stuck in the back of the car on a long journey this summer but parents will now be faced with a new challenge of constant requests to change route, slow down or speed up so their passengers can catch Pokémon characters.”

Press team

Press team

For journalist enquiries only

Share

Latest stories

Website preview
RAC reaction: Breakdowns up by a fifth during heatwave
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “Our roadside patrols handled a fifth more breakdowns yesterday than what's normal for this time in June, with London, Essex, Kent and Sussex all seeing the biggest increases in vehicles failing in the hot weather. Top faults included tyres – with blowouts more common in the heat as pressure in the rubber builds – batteries and, of course, overheated engines. Today is looking just as busy as temperatures climb even higher.
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Fleets could cut fuel costs by up to 15% through smarter driver data
RAC Connected data from driver telematics shows how data-led driver engagement is delivering immediate savings for UK fleet operators under cost pressure
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Breakdowns 20% up during heatwave
RAC breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams said: "Tuesday was a very busy day for breakdowns with our patrols finishing the day 20% busier than normal for late June and Wednesday is looking even more challenging as more cars are succumbing to the extreme heat. We strongly urge people to avoid driving unless it's essential, as breaking down in these conditions is potentially life threatening if they aren't properly prepared. Being stuck at the side of a hot road without enough water and some form of shade is very serious. For this reason our patrols are also carrying extra bottles of water to give to broken-down members.
media.rac.co.uk

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

About the RAC

The RAC is an iconic British driving services brand and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted names, providing complete peace of mind ® to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

Contact

media.rac.co.uk