Keeping on the right side of the law when playing Pokemon Go
The Pokemon Go craze is sweeping the globe and many people are getting very excited as they go out hunting Pokemon. Here are some tips to make sure you stay on the right side of the law while 'catching them all'.
Do not hunt Pokemon and drive
In all states of Australia, it's illegal to use your mobile phone while driving. So while it can be handy to use your car to get to faraway gyms and hunting rarer Pokemons it's important to keep your hands of the phone while driving if you want to avoid copping a heavy fine and losing demerit points. PAssengers can hunt Pokemons with no issues but keep in mind that your eggs won't count the distance that you spend driving towards the incubation distance as you'll be travelling too fast.
Do not trespass
Even if you can see a Pikachu winking at you from inside a fenced area it's important to check for signs that indicate that this is private property before you enter a location. You can be found guilty of trespassing if you are entering a property you are not allowed to enter. For some properties such as high security government buildings this can pose a significant penalty and in extreme cases can leave you liable for jail sentences. Unfortunately Pokemon hunting is not a defence under the law!
Pay attention to restrictions on phone use
Courts have recently had to remind people that recording devices are not allowed in court in Australia. Even if you have been Pokemon hunting rather than using the camera or recording functions, your smartphone or tablet still counts as a recording device. Similar restrictions are in place in customs lines in the airport and other high security location.
Watch where you are going
Even if you are not driving, if you are walking around and staring at your phone it can be possible to cause accidents to other people (either in motor vehicles or just on the path). If you act in a way that causes an accident you may be liable for that accident. It's a good rule of thumb to keep an eye on your surroundings anyway.
Pokemon Go is a great way to get out and explore your neighbourhood. If you do find yourself on the wrong side of the law when Pokemon hunting be sure to get legal advice from a law firm as early as possible.