Anyone planning to download the hugely anticipated Pokemon GO game has been warned to keep road safety in mind.

The warning came after research found that 30% of pedestrians say their mobile phone has distracted them from traffic.

The new app is based on the popular Japanese characters that first rocketed to fame in the UK in the 1990s but its release in the UK has been delayed.

But those planning to download the game on its release – or those who have already found a way of getting it – are being warned by insurance experts to take care on the roads.

Motoring editor at price comparison site Confused.com , Amanda Stretton, said: “We are already aware that mobile phone usage can have a profound impact on road safety and in light of mounting reports from the US, New Zealand and Australia of distracted Pokemon Go players wandering across roads oblivious to oncoming traffic, caution must be taken."

She added that drivers gaming behind the wheel could also face fines of up to £1,000.

Research carried out be One Poll Research on behalf of Confused.com found that one in seven people admitted crossing the road without looking.

Those aged between 18 and 24 were also found most likely to be affected with 69 % saying they use their phones while walking.

Pokemon GO is an augmented reality game app available on smart phones that allows users to explore the real world to find Pokemon characters with the aim of collecting them all.

Looking at real locations through the phone screen will reveal the Pokemon – or Pocket Monsters – and allow players to capture them using Pokeballs.

The game is currently available in the US, Australia, New Zealand and Germany but it is unclear when it will be released in the UK.