That's an excellent question, and your concern for safety is completely valid. It's something more and more city planners and designers are prioritizing. Yes, absolutely! You can find urban trash cans with rounded edges, and they are becoming increasingly common in modern public spaces.
The shift towards rounded edges is a key part of a design philosophy focused on "injury prevention." In busy urban environments where people are walking quickly, children might be running, or visibility is low at night, sharp corners on objects like trash cans can pose a significant hazard. A simple bump could lead to a nasty cut or bruise. By incorporating smooth, rounded curves, designers drastically reduce this risk, making the sidewalk safer for everyone.
You'll often see these safer designs in areas with high foot traffic, such as main shopping streets, parks, playgrounds, and outside public buildings. Materials like coated steel or molded plastics are frequently used, which not only allow for these smooth shapes but are also durable and resistant to vandalism. So, the next time you're out and about, take a closer look. You'll likely notice that many newer trash cans are designed with your safety—and the safety of your community—in mind. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in creating a more people-friendly city.