Well, I almost bit the dust today . . . 

I was walking onto the sidewalk from the parking lot of my apartment. 
In an instant I jumped back reflexively as a large bicycle containing
one mom and no less than two children (one fore, one aft) flew by me
at warp speed.  It was morning, I was on my way to work and still a
bit sleepy, but fortunately I was alert enough to avoid this
collision.  For sure, if I hadn't moved so quickly, there was no way
she was going to be able to maneuver around me.  I cringe when I think
of the possible consequences.

Now all consideration of pedestrian responsibility set aside for the
moment, I cannot for the life of me understand how a mother can be so
utterly reckless, barreling down these sidewalks with entire family on
board.  I ride a bike here very often and am extremely cautious
approaching blind driveways, intersections, etc..  And that is with
only myself on the bike. Sure I've had pedestrians come darting out of
buildings, walking zig-zag, etc., so that is why I remain alert and
actually slow down sometimes.

These moms, they get up to speed and apparently aquire so much
momentum they are unable to slow down, let alone stop in an emergency.

Thanks for hearing me out - had to vent this one off :-)

Regards,

MB