Right before I get to work, I have to go across and overpass that's fed by service roads. The sidewalks are smashed(2 feet high piles of sharp rubble over the joints of the bridge) and unusable. I'm also too stubborn to walk my bike. The road's speed limit is 45, but exacerbated by the fact that people exiting the highway often move faster than that, and people east bound are not far past a drop in speed limit and are frequently doing much more. There are no shoulders.

I contemplated what to do, before I finally settled on my current pattern. I first off wait for the bulk off the traffic to pass(Either in the parking lot of work, or on the side road that I turn from) and get behind the line of cars. Depending on time of day and timing, I may end up at the front of the line. If this is the case, and it's feasible, I will blow the light after stopping and making sure I'm clear(No one coming on the service roads) to make sure I get a head start on the cars. I take the whole lane, have lights running, and signal my turn off once I get through the intersection. I also get the hell off that road as soon as possible, either by turning into work if the time is right, or popping onto a side street and crossing when I get a break in traffic.

I've taken the same road during non-commute hours, and can ride it like a normal vehicle. During the commute, it's simply too heavy and too risky to be on for long. I've had a few close calls.

Also: You have your priorities a bit backwards. Chances are if you get hit in heavy traffic, it will be at speeds high enough to break both you and your bike. Bikes are replaceable, you are not.