Don't give up. I've been commuting for over 10 years. Just logged over 11,000 in 2016. Had things thrown at me, drivers cut me off and jump out of their cars to fight, hit from behind by a car... I must admit, I watch my mirrors more than the front of the road and ride with a camera on the bike, but I assert myself and make myself known. I yield only out of courtesy, but otherwise, take my share of the road when safe. After my accident, I have been taking trails when possible (more peaceful and sometimes faster) but otherwise stick to the roads. I ride 365 days in all weather. The local folks, I think, got used to me, which hopefully makes it safer for other cyclists.

I know it can be intimidating, but awareness is your best defense. Be as predictable as possible, and try not to antagonize the idiots, even my middle finger gets a lot more sun than any of my other fingers at times. I'll see them tailing me in my mirror, and after some time, they go around. Haven't been intentionally hit yet, but I'm always looking out for distracted drivers.

Easier said than done, but do not give up the cycling lifestyle. When I pull my 2 wheel Burley trailer loaded with groceries or gas cans for my mower, they tend to gawk in curiosity and go around. Don't think they want to hit a bike toting 30 gallons of gasoline. Good luck, and think it over.