We came across a group of old folks (ages over 52) walking on some back roads around Comfort. It was a big group of people, and they had cars waiting for them up the road, so it was some kind of organized affair. As we approached the cars, there were several people standing in the middle of the road not paying attention to traffic (understandable since there really isn't any around there). When we got close to them, I called out that we were approaching to make sure they didn't step out in front of us. Two of the ladies freaked out and jumped into each other's arms. They gave us angry scowls as we came past. I was tempted to give them the finger in reply, but thought better of it. Instead, I just nodded and smiled, which is actually secret code for the finger.
Pedestrians who aren't paying attention are dangerous to cyclists. I can't count the number of times I've come up on someone, called out that I'm going to pass them, and had them jump right in front of me. I learned this long ago while riding at the park, and actually hit one or two of them before I figured it out. Now I know to be very careful in this situation because, unfortunately, pedestrians are no smarter than deer on the highway. And certainly not so interesting to look at.
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i think they were deaf. they were certainly old enough that deafness was a possibility. but based on their moves when they finally looked up i think they were members of a square dancing troupe. i definitely saw a reflexive dosey-doe.
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