Originally Posted by
Pedaleur
If the driver is turning right, it's the correct way to do it (assuming the driver isn't slamming the brakes without adequate space).
Even if the car isn't turning right, it also leaves as much room as possible on the left side, avoiding blocking oncoming traffic that's trying to turn into that street. Remember, a car can't just shift sideways like pedestrians or bikes can.
Can't say anything about cars that race you to a red light, but it's generally a bad idea to stop the car in the middle. Stopping close to the curb is the right thing to do.