It must be a Portland native thing. I've never seen so many people walk or ride in all dark clothing, during the rain, freely with no care in the world. I think it's the influx of transplants moving to the city. Natives are like, "wait, so I can't just walk across any street at anytime of the day in my normal all black clothing! What's next? I'll have to work full time? Fuck you California!"... Or something like that.
We have a diseased pedestrian culture here, where people think it's OK to walk right into traffic no matter the conditions. When I see people do it, I immediately think "new transplant" trying to foolishly fit in. Then I think, moron, jackass, imbecile! Because that's exactly what you are when you step out in front of moving cars that can't see you. Try not to take the pedestrian right away laws too literally people, because the grim reaper doesn't give a fuck about your rules!!!
Ever consider brake checking the asshole with the brights on your ass instead of blaming pedestrians for daring to walk in the dark when it is raining? This pedestrian blame game is so old. You don't like our laws? Move to a place where it is legal to mow people down. Or get involved in politics and try to change said laws. You're only going to live here for 2-5 years anyway, so maybe just deal with it?
If your feelings get hurt in Portland you get to be in a special protected class. You could probably sue the pedestrian that scared you. The Mercury would back you up with some sympathetic "article".