That's a really common concern, and honestly, it's a smart one to have. Nobody wants to clean up a spilled trash can. From my experience, the stability of a modern urban trash bin really depends on its specific design, but manufacturers have gotten much better at addressing this exact issue.
Many contemporary models feature a low center of gravity and a weighted base. This means the bottom is intentionally heavier, making it much harder for the bin to be knocked over by a casual bump, a strong gust of wind, or even a curious animal. You'll often find that models intended for public spaces are designed with a slightly wider stance at the bottom for added stability.
Another feature to look for is an anti-tip design. Some bins have a rounded bottom that allows them to rock back into place if pushed, rather than falling completely over. Others might be anchored to the ground with bolts for permanent installation in high-wind areas.
So, while no bin is entirely tip-proof, the better-designed urban trash cans are surprisingly stable. If you're selecting one, I'd recommend looking for terms like "weighted base," "wind-resistant," or "anti-tip design" in the product description. For existing bins, ensuring they are placed on a level surface and not overloaded top-heavily will also go a long way in preventing any messy accidents.