Polite But Maybe Not Safe

Q: I often ride my bike on a route that takes me across an arterial street. I have a stop sign and cross traffic does not. I’m good with waiting for a gap in traffic, but sometimes a car will stop to let me cross. This is polite, but should I go? I’m concerned it’s dangerous because it’s not a move other drivers expect.

A: We should start with the law. That way you’ll know right up front that it’s not much help, at least if you’re riding within city limits. And to be clear, I’m talking about this specific situation. As you know if you read this column regularly, I feel strongly about the connection between traffic laws and safety.

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