i agree with most of what was said above, as a cyclist the idea is to be seen while riding. the fear of having your back to traffic is legitimate and i understand wanting to ride on the sidewalk. but motorists won't see you coming off the curb as others have said. plus, the last thing you want is to hurt yourself or a pedestrian.

on the road, motorists will see you as part of traffic and go around, but to help them see you, do things to be seen. that means taking the lane when appropriate, you can opt to wear bright clothing, but mostly i would just get the brightest lights you can find (front and back) and use them during the day and at night - they far more increase your visibility. as such, you can ride more confidently that you're being seen.

when motorists honk at me i give them a friendly wave and say thanks for letting me pass! or something similar. remember you have a right to the road. best of luck whatever you decide...