Most people who have driven in the US/UK learn this and use it all the time.A noble gesture to allow someone to walk across and get to the other side of the road.
The first time I did that at the Forum,one couple (40-45yrs of age,localites) stood rooted to the side of the path,as if in disbelief. A person standing next to them kept glaring at me,as if I had done something wrong.
Hasn't been that bad,since.
It goes a long way to smile & wave. Helps remove any inkling of anger a person might harbor,for your fault or someone elses.