I noticed something the other day, i.e. thought about something I do as potential blog-fodder 
I tend to prefer to cross primary arteries at major intersections when traffic is busy. When traffic is not-so-busy, I tend to choose non-major intersections. I say “tend” to indicate that if one were to bet on my actions at any given crossing opportunity one would have the best chance of “winning” by paying attention to my distinction. I do not mean to indicate any solid rule of traffic or compulsive behavior on my part. The three photos below demonstrate what I mean. The major artery is National Ave. My three most-used crossing intersections are (top to bottom) Cherry (going to and from downtown), Harrison (campus and downtown), and Grand (going to campus).
The reason for this behavior appears to be (I say “appears” because I’m only just now thinking about it specifically) that I do not like being the lone bicyclist at a lonely intersection. I’m expressing a personal preference, not a rule or suggestion anyone else ought to follow.
I am very comfortable in traffic and rarely feel intimidated by motor vehicles — even on those rare occasions when a driver is trying to intimidate me. But there is something about being alone at a major intersection that bugs me. Perhaps it is this: Being slow and exposed in traffic is a safety asset for bicyclists (re: CyclingSavvy) because, among other things, bicyclists can have 360-degree awareness and maneuverability. From a proper position in traffic, we can see traffic situations unfold in time to take action as necessary to ensure our own safety — thus virtually eliminating the most common crash scenarios.
When I am stopped, alone, at a lonely intersection, I might as well be a pedestrian standing in the street. I much prefer to be part of a line of traffic at big intersections.
Again, this is just a tendency and perference I have noticed in my own traffic behavior. I am not making a suggestion for others. Well, perhaps this: It’s always a good thing to reflect upon what you do and why you do it.
Comments 4
Interesting. I have noticed that I cut through a few, selected parking lots in the morning (avoids traffic light delay), but use the intersections on the way home in preference to dealing with parkers.
Today, for the first time, ever, I turned pedestrian from a left turn lane on Highway 10, shouldered the bike, and hiked in the rest of the way to work rather than wait through three light cycles.
Being slow and exposed in traffic may be an asset, but I’d rather simply arrive at my destination safely and faster. On rare occasion, that may mean walking . Bikes ARE different!
Posted 05 Mar 2012 at 6:37 pm ¶That last pic looks like new sidewalk. That true?
Posted 05 Mar 2012 at 10:32 pm ¶I’m more likely to use unsignalized intersections when traffic is light because there is a better chance of a quick crossing. If I use the major intersection and get a fresh red, I may have to sit there for 90 seconds or more. When traffic is heavy, I need the signal to get across the busy arterial.
Posted 06 Mar 2012 at 12:41 am ¶Robert… Yes, the city “improved” the National – Grand intersection.
Keri and Steve… Individual choices are rather fascinating and driven by so many different motives
Posted 06 Mar 2012 at 9:35 am ¶