Pokémon​ Go And Driving? Stop, Or Get A Ticket: Wall Police

Wall, NJ -- If you're playing Pokémon Go and driving, be prepared to get a ticket.

Wall Township police are reminding motorists that operating a motor vehicle while using a handheld device -- even for the GPS function -- is against the law, Wall Lt. Greg Carpino said.

"The Wall Township Police Department would like to make its residents aware that law enforcement organizations nationwide are handling many distracted driver motor vehicle crashes in which drivers were utilizing the GPS function on their handheld device as part of the new Pokémon Go app at the time of the crash," Carpino said.

The smartphone app-based game, which utilizes the phone's GPS function to locate hidden creatures visible only through your mobile's camera, has exploded in popularity across the country since its release July 6. It requires players to get out into the community to explore landmarks, public places and area neighborhoods, in search of the creatures in a virtual scavenger hunt.

There have not been any crashes in Wall Township so far tied to the app, Carpino said. Other police departments have issued similar warnings; in California, one department posted a sign telling motorists to put down the app and drive.

People walking and riding their bicycles while playing the Pokémon Go app are urged to pay attention to their surroundings and be careful as well, he said.

Participants in the Pokémon Go app also should be aware so they do not fall victim to being lured to certain locations where their personal property (car, cell phone or money) may be at risk of theft, he said.

"The best recommendation is to use common sense and follow all the rules of the road while playing the game," Carpino said.

In Coronado, Calif., police posted this sign telling motorists to stop playing the game while they drive. Patch file photo