AAA: Don't Play 'Pokemon Go' While You're Driving

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- AAA of Minneapolis is warning drivers to stay off their phones and avoid distraction as the "Pokemon Go" game continues to gain popularity.

Safety officials say distracted driving as a result of playing the game could lead to potentially fatal consequences. Officials say crashes across the country last week involving "Pokemon Go" should be a wake-up call to focus on driving and put down your phone.

The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety says distracted driving is a factor in about a quarter of crashes ever year across the state, which results in at least 70 deaths and about 350 serious injuries. AAA officials said "Pokemon Go" should not be played while you're driving, and motorists need to be especially watchful of others playing the game who might enter an intersection or street at the wrong time.

Safety officials said pedestrians playing the game also need to be aware of their surroundings to avoid deadly consequences.