Walking Along Roads
Texas · State law · Reviewed 2026-10-24
Use an adjacent sidewalk when one is provided and accessible. If there is no sidewalk, Texas law says a pedestrian must use the left side of the roadway or shoulder facing oncoming traffic, unless that side is obstructed or unsafe.
Official source: Texas Transportation Code Chapter 552, Section 552.006Source checked 2026-10-24
More about this rule
The rule in plain language
Texas Transportation Code Section 552.006 separates the rule into two situations. An accessible adjacent sidewalk must be used. Without a sidewalk, a pedestrian walking along a highway must face oncoming traffic from the left side of the roadway or shoulder, subject to the obstruction or safety exception.
Common follow-up questions
What side of the road should I run on?
Section 552.006 addresses a pedestrian walking along a highway; it does not mention running by name. Its rule is to use an accessible adjacent sidewalk or, without one, the left side of the roadway or shoulder facing oncoming traffic unless that side is obstructed or unsafe.
What if the left side is blocked or unsafe?
Section 552.006 makes an exception when the left side of the roadway or the shoulder facing oncoming traffic is obstructed or unsafe.
Do I have to use the sidewalk?
A pedestrian may not walk along the roadway when an adjacent sidewalk is provided and accessible.
What to keep in mind
This statewide rule covers where a pedestrian travels along a road. It does not answer every crossing, closure, trail, or property-specific condition. Follow official traffic controls and check the current statute before relying on this guide.
Civic education, not legal advice. Rules can change.
