In many Western rural communities, distances make walking impractical; and although basic requirements and emergency transport may often be provided, public transport is normally non-existent, so those without cars are dependent on those who have, and are prevented from making social, personal or entertainment trips. This particularly limits old people, housewives, young people and children in activities that involve distance or time.
In rural areas, moving from place to place consumes a lot of people's time and effort. They may have to travel long distances to reach water supplies, health facilities, grinding mills or markets. Often women in particular do not have access to a means of transport besides walking and carrying goods on their heads.