http://vimeo.com/25857446 I recorded my commute to work the other day and finally got the video up. Skip ahead to 12:52 to 13:07 and you'll see the intersection. I got lucky that day to get into the turn lane. It's usually very busy. CACycling: I do take the lane if I have a chance to. I've started doing what you recommend by using the Pedestrian light if I can't make the turn lane.