If you have to walk on the street, without sidewalks, I have a few hints to make it safer. I add here that I have done it all over the country, on all kinds of roads, and it can be very dangerous.
#1 is most often unknown. Pedestrians are supposed to walk FACING THE TRAFFIC, on the left side of the road. This way both you and the driver know that you see the car.
#2. If you use a walkman (and I always did), keep it low enough that you can hear the cars coming up behind you.
#3. Wear something bright and highly visible. Yellow is one of the most visible colors on the road. I don't care if beige, black and gray are your normal wardrobe colors. Give it up for something people can really see, even neons.
#4. This one can save your life ... if a car is approaching you, and you hear one coming up behind you (the reason for the walkman being low if you use one) on a narrow road, stop walking for a second and step aside. Chances are neither driver will see you because they're distracted by each other.
#5. Use all personal safety measures that you know about. Never assume a dog you meet is freindly, no matter what an animal lover you are. Look all people full in the face and say hello (don't act like a victim, but a strong, confident person). Stay in well-lit areas if you have to go out after dark. If you do, carry a flashlight, there are all kinds of those now that are easy to carry, strap on a belt, etc.
#6 is one I ignored terribly, but is important. When you go out walking by yourself in an area where people may not know you, find a way to attach some kind of ID to your person. It should have as a minimum your name (write it in your clothes with a sharpie, if nothing else). There are tags you can put in your shoes that have other important info.