I might sound a bit like a car driver with this one, but one of those every day annoyances is when walking on a road where there is no pavement (sidewalk for you Americans). It is perfectly reasonable to walk on the road where there is no pavement – many of the roads date back to before cars, but you have to do it right. And frankly the number of pedestrians that know the right side of the road to walk along is surprisingly small.
Not only are there rules about the right side of the road to walk on, but walking on the wrong side of the road makes it more dangerous for other pedestrians.
Walking on the right might seem wrong at first appearances because it is the left side of the road we usually use. And once you try the right, you realise just why it makes sense – you can keep an eye on the traffic flow closest to you, so you can make a quick dive into the hedge if necessary. And yes I’ve had to do that in the past.
And to quote the Highway Code :-
If there is no pavement, keep to the right-hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic. You should take extra care and
- be prepared to walk in single file, especially on narrow roads or in poor light
- keep close to the side of the road.
It may be safer to cross the road well before a sharp right-hand bend so that oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you. Cross back after the bend.
So don’t be stupid, selfish, or a danger to others and walk on the right.
