what's wrong with getting passed while transecting a major intersection?

I don't suffer under the delusion that motorists never pass while a bicyclist takes the lane across intersections. This is unrealistic.

A cyclist knows the road is too wide to control effectively when the motorists start passing them on both sides.


The pinch at the far side? Shouldn't be a problem, but i guess it could be. Shoot for a safe road position once the stripes and the curb starts again, and keep an eye on what going on behind/to your sides with a mirror, perhaps.

By using tools like hand signals, a mirror, fairly assertive road position, some high viz/daytime visible blinkies, while communicating their intentions clearly to motorists (hopefully!), a cyclist can have some effect on respect for their right of way.

My favorite, insouciant traffic tool? the 'magic fingers' hand signal- hand extended down and to the left, like a slow/stop signal, but with wiggling fingers.