Bicycle Austin forum

I'm new at bike commuting, and have already almost been hit by a car pulling out of a small parkinglot. When I yell hello to make the driver aware of my presence she began screaming at me. What she was screaming I'm not sure because I was just glad I wasn't hit. As I'm continuing on my way I relize she is following me and continuing to scream at me. I had to turn into a library parkinglot to get away from this person. What should I do next time this happens?

It was around dusk and I had a headlight on. I was on a sidewalk but only because I do not trust the traffic in the area. Would it really make a difference if I was riding on the street? Should I overcome my fear of riding on busy roads and stop riding on the sidewalk? I really want to get this right so I can continue to commute by bike.