But drivers, too, have been accused of showing little respect for pedestrians as both groups have been urged to show more courtesy on local roads.

Bathurst Regional Council has received a string of complaints about the behaviour of some of the city’s drivers, especially at the busy intersection of William and Russell streets where a major bank of traffic lights is installed.

Pedestrians are also being reminded to stay focused while crossing the road and not have their concentration diverted by talking on their mobile phone, texting or listening to their iPod.

In an effort to address the situation before someone is badly hurt, Tablelands Area road safety officer Iris Dorsett has moved to address an existing problem.

“Drivers in the region are again being called to action, and this time to improve their behaviour at pedestrian crossings,” she said.

“We want to remind drivers of the road rules and their responsibility at pedestrian crossings, particularly at intersections controlled by traffic lights. 

“The road rules clearly state that you must give way to pedestrians crossing the road into which you are turning.”

Ms Dorsett said the rule also stated that where the traffic at the intersection is controlled by traffic lights, there may be signals for pedestrians that show them when to cross.

“Pedestrians must follow these signals,” Ms Dorsett said. “Drivers need to take responsibility for their actions, start driving in a safer manner and not become complacent in their driving behaviours,” she said. “It’s a shared road environment, so drivers and pedestrians alike should all obey the road rules to ensure the CBD roads are safe for all road users.”

Ms Dorsett said that further to this, motorists must also give way to pedestrians – even if there is no marked pedestrian crossing – if there is any danger of colliding with them.

Cr Warren Aubin said yesterday all road users needed to be aware of the rules.

“Both parties need to respect the other,” he said. “Motorists, please be mindful of your obligations to pedestrians because ultimately they have right of way. And pedestrians, please don’t be consumed by technology. Use some commonsense. Leave the mobile phone in your pocket and concentrate on getting across the road in one piece.

“And if you have an iPod and are listening to music, take out the ear plugs. Sound is a road safety tool and an important part of being aware of the traffic around you.”

More information about Australian Road Rules is available from the Roads and Maritime Services website www.rms.nsw.gov.au.