>Anyone have any suggestions on how to be calm in a second when you are wondering if you are going to be dead or in an ambulance?

Why, so you never yell? I don't think yelling was bad. The car has more power and the driver has the responsibility to remain calm. However, I think a way to remain calm is stay focussed on the priority of crossing safely. If yelling helps, yell, but quite often it would not. Speed of foot would be the best response.

I have never been hit by a vehicle, but I have quite a bit of observer experience with accident cases that have proved tragic for the victims. I am sometimes afraid and always cautious as a pedestrian. That seems the most productive focus to me. I don't take the risk of idiot drivers lightly!!! I hope some of this might be helpful to you.