Indeed, as a pedestrian I have just as much right to be in the road (either crossing, or just walking along it) as I would have were I to hop on a bicycle, and

Indeed, as a pedestrian I have just as much right to be in the road (either crossing, or just walking along it) as I would have were I to hop on a bicycle, and more rights than if I was driving a car[1]. Motorways are the exception, where you're not allowed on or beside the road unless you're in a suitable powered vehicle or there's some kind of emergency. There are various markings that suggest that you probably shouldn't cross, but they aren't enforceable. Cars also have priority in many cases, but priority isn't an excuse for crashing into someone. [1]: My right to drive a car is limited: I need a license, insurance, and permission from the owner. If I'm driving or riding a bicycle, I need to obey signage -- no jumping red lights, no going the wrong way down one way roads. If I'm walking, I'm perfectly at liberty to walk through a red light if I want to.