Interesting you should say that. You know, when you think about it, sidewalks are really only there for the benefit of cars. They want to go fast, and they don't want anyone in their way - if they do, they are fair game. An idea that is beginning to gain currency in many places is that roads should be made WITHOUT sidewalks, and the speed of the MV traffic kept right down. That way drivers have no excuse but to be careful.
If you are afraid of the cars on faster roads (with good reason) I suggest you get a good blackburn mirror that sticks out the side of your handlebars. It tends to keep drivers a little further away. Danlite is great at night too. Another trick that's a bit goofy, but seems to work when traveling along roads with really fast motor traffic, is the flag sticking out of a pannier trick - tilted slightly roadside. Looks a bit goofy, but hey it works.
The point is, it doesn't matter where you live - it's more of a lifestyle choice. But next time I move house, I will never buy anywhere too far out in the 'burbs.