If you're lucky like I was, the first snake you'll see will be about a garter snake that's about four inches long and the first bear will be the back end of one running away. Then you'll realize you're in their habitat and they have no problem going somewhere else to avoid you. Twice, in VA, during my hike I saw a bear straight ahead on the trail in front of me. Thankfully, not close. At least fifty yarsds off. We both froze when we recognized each other and neither of us moved until I said 'Hey bear' at which point they both walked off into the woods.
I also had a rattlesnake rattle at me in NJ. I stopped in midstep, put my foot back where it originally was and looked around to locate the little guy. I saw him in the grass on the side of the trail about three feet in front of me. I took a couple steps to the other side walked by and turned around to see it slither off on its way.
About 1/3 of the way thru my hike i realized I was more likely to get bit by a dog, which I did see happen to another hiker, than have a problem with a wild animal, bear or snake.