I always abide by the highway code when walking along roads without a usable footpath - walk towards the traffic unless it is more dangerous to do so (eg a right-hand bend so you cannot see what is around the corner).
Another useful thing is a mapping aid - I use Pokemon GO which shows all footpaths in realtime so you can see if there is a non-road route - other Apps may be available!!
And at night, a torch is good. I use a pretty powerful one (6000+ lumin) pointing ahead, but making sure you don't blind any driver. It's sufficiently bright enough to make them slow down enough, just to make sure it's not another vehicle! I re-iterate to only point it about 20 yards ahead (max) down onto the road. It there's no traffic around, great for round corners as it can look like you have a high-beam.