I used to have several pet snakes and they're actually really timid, lovely animals. Okay, there are some breeds that are aggressive but most of them are absolutely not. They're terribly misunderstood and deeply sensitive creatures, who have strong bonds with their owners. For the most part, they just want to get away from people!
I'm sure I'm not likely to make you fall in love with them but wanted you to at least consider the idea that maybe they're not so scary - for your own benefit, not theirs - in case you see them somewhere! :)