What Side of the Road Do You Walk On?

Which side of the road do you walk on if there are no sidewalks that separate you from traffic? Walking against traffic is one of the top rules for safe walking, and it differs from the rules for bicycling.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that if there are no sidewalks on the road, pedestrians should walk facing oncoming traffic, on the same side of the road as the oncoming traffic (but as far from the traffic as possible). When bicycling, you should ride in the same direction as automobile traffic.

Reasons to Walk Against Traffic

Why is it safer to walk on the same side of the road as oncoming traffic? If a vehicle approaches you from behind while you are walking, you have only your ears to rely on to know it is coming. If it is coming from in front of you, you have both your eyes and your ears to help you know to move off to the side (or even jump into the ditch).

If you are walking in the early morning or late afternoon, it is even more concerning, because drivers have the low-lying sun in their eyes as they approach you. You need to be vigilant.

Avoid the dangers of distracted walking and keep your eyes ahead and looking for vehicles, not on your mobile phone. You should always ensure you can hear ambient noise and you aren't screening it all out with noise-canceling earphones or earbuds.

Keep in mind, however, that there are certain areas of the road where facing oncoming traffic may be dangerous. For example, if you are cresting a hill or walking around a sharp curve in the road, oncoming vehicles will be unable to see you (and you will be unable to see them) until they are too close. On those occasions it may be best to walk on the other side of the road until visibility improves.

Know Which Side of the Road Is Best

The side of the road that is opposite of traffic flow is different in various countries. There are also variations depending on the type of road and whether there is a sidewalk.

• United States, Canada, and Europe: If you are in the United States or other countries where cars drive on the right side of the road, you should walk on the left side when you are on a two-way road.
• Britain: If you are in Britain or countries where vehicles drive on the left side of the road, you should walk on the right side when you are on a road with two-way traffic.
• Sidewalks: It's safest to use a sidewalk or path that is separated from the roadway. In this case, it doesn't matter for safety whether you are facing traffic or not.
• One-way roads: If you are walking on a one-way road, you should try to walk so you are facing traffic, on whichever side has the widest shoulder. It's best to avoid walking in the same direction as traffic on a one-way road.

Speak Up for Safety

When you are walking with a partner or group, encourage them to walk on the side of the road facing traffic or to use the sidewalk. Educate them as to which is the safer choice.

If you are in a group, be sure that everyone walks on the same side of the road. That way drivers can avoid the entire group in one maneuver. Avoid walking down the middle of the road or the middle of the travel lane.

Some organized fitness walking events, such as volkssport walks, follow pedestrian safety rules and don't have roads closed off from vehicle traffic. These walks should follow the rule of having walkers on the side of the road that faces oncoming traffic (left side in North America) if there is no sidewalk or separated path.

There are events such as half-marathons that route the racers on an uncontrolled course but in the same direction as traffic. If you encounter this, be sure that you and your walking companions walk single file, keep far to the right, and alert each other when a car is approaching from behind. It is generally better to obey the course officials during the event rather than trying to get them to reroute it.

The situation can be even more hazardous if you walk on the left side but others continue to walk on the right side. Contact the event organizers immediately after the event and tell them that this was a potentially dangerous choice for a route that was not separated from traffic.

Stay Safe While Walking on the Road

Whether you are walking alone or with a group, it's essential to observe basic walking safety tips while on the road.

1. Pay attention. Keep your music low so you can hear pedestrians, cars, and bicyclists. Pay attention to traffic, any signs or signals, and follow the rules of the road.
2. Dress appropriately. Wear bright, reflective clothing, especially if you're walking at night or during rainy weather. You want to make sure cars can see you as they approach.
3. Put your phone down. Leave texting for when you get home. Instead, be present as you walk and avoid distractions.
4. Watch for emergencies. Look out for emergency vehicles as they pass. Listen for sirens and watch the lights as they approach and make sure to walk around them on your path.
5. Cross at intersections. If you're crossing the street, always do so in a crosswalk. Look both ways for cars and cyclists before you step out onto the road.