So I’m walking to an evening class at a local college, it’s dark. There’s a bend just before the junction and as I’m walking across a car comes round way too fast. I had to step back to avoid being hit. I was wearing gloves and as it went past I hit it, no idea why, just instinct and anger.

I carry on walking and I see the driver has pulled over a bit down the road, I was expecting a “sorry are you ok” but she instead shouted “did you just hit my car?”. That set me off, shouting at her that she almost fucking ran me over. Then she says “you don’t have to use that kind of language”, the fucking nerve.

Gave up and just walked off. Wish I’d have smashed the wing mirror or keyed the car or something.

Has anyone else almost been run over and how do you deal with the anger of it?

  • @Etterra
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    813 hours ago

    In Illinois pedestrians always have the right of way. Even if they’re fucking stupid, like walking along the median at night in dark clothes.

    If you’re going walking at night, I’d advise:

    1. Wear a reflective vest. They’re dirt cheap.
    2. Get a flashlight that you can clip on your belt or pocket - I got a good one when I moved into the suburban hinterlands, and you can’t fucking miss it.
    3. Easier said than done, but didn’t just look for traffic - listen for it. And always err on the side of caution.

    You can’t escape the need for cars, especially in America outside of urban areas, so you just need to be careful. And remember everybody - you, me, and Joe down the street, EVERYBODY, every single human alive - is a fucking idiot. It’s just a matter of degrees, subject matter, and self awareness.

    • @[email protected]
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      413 hours ago

      In Tajikstan they don’t have cars yet but if you get hit by a donkey then you’re entitled to three sheep compensation