After a confrontation when someone yelled at me to get on the sidewalk, and I yelled something uncomplimentary at the gentleman. he immediately slammed on his brakes to stop, I stopped behind him. When he asked me to repeat myself, I decided it was prudent not to antagonize him by repeating the comment. He did tell me that he knew (because he had a commercial driver's license) that bicycles are not allowed on the road. I corrected him, and after some more grumbling he took off and as I started to ride off behind him, he slammed on his brakes again, and so I just said firmly, "Sir, that is assault." after a few seconds of trying to come up with a remark he drove away.

So, I established my rule. It may not stop a confrontation, but at least I won't hesitate to repeat it, if asked.

*** If someone shouts at me while riding in the road to get on the sidewalk, I will shout back, "I am not walking!" ***