General News
16 December, 2023
Police clamp down on crossing culprits
Horsham drivers are putting lives at risk by not giving way to pedestrians or swerving around them at pedestrian crossings.
Senior Sergeant Brendan Broadbent said drivers approaching the crossing in Pynsent Street between Horsham Newsagency and the Town Hall had been seen moving to the wrong side of the road to avoid stopping for pedestrians.
"Drivers must stop and give way to them," he said.
A central business district reference group - which includes local business people and shoppers - is echoing the police call for increased public education on the importance of respecting pedestrian crossings.
Police and Horsham Rural City Council joined forces this week to warn motorists that pedestrians have right of way at crossings.
"They are designed to be visible and convenient for pedestrians, to slow traffic and create a safer environment for everyone," Snr Sgt Broadbent said.
The Pynsent Street crossing is one of the newest installed in Horsham CBD.
Customers at a cafe near the crossing said signs indicating that motorists must give way to pedestrians could help.
One person said a man in a wheelchair came close to an accident at a well-marked crossing in Roberts Avenue, Horsham.
Sen Sgt Broadbent urged drivers and pedestrians to be more aware and courteous towards each other.
"Drivers must give way to pedestrians crossing the road into which their vehicles are turning, even when there is no marked crossing," he said.
“Pedestrians also have responsibilities when crossing the road. They must cross by the shortest and safest route and not stay on the road longer than necessary."
He said crossing within 20 metres of a marked crossing was illegal - as was crossing the road while distracted by devices or impaired by alcohol or drugs.
The Horsham CBD Reference Group urged drivers and pedestrians to be more aware and courteous towards each other and to follow the rules and signs at the crossings.
They said that by doing so, everyone could help to prevent accidents and injuries and make Horsham CBD a more pleasant and attractive place to visit.
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