Hanoi traffic looks chaotic, but motorbikes flow around you. Walk at a steady, predictable pace — never sprint or freeze mid-street.
The trick locals use is the 'slow walk': step off the curb at a steady pace and keep moving forward without sudden stops. Drivers anticipate your trajectory and weave around you. If you stop, they cannot predict where you'll be next, which is exactly when accidents happen.
Make eye contact with the closest rider when possible, and use a raised hand to signal your intent. At busy crossings, follow a local — pace yourself just behind them and you'll glide across without drama.