Maybe others have pointed this out to you but what you are describing here is not what many of us think of as "vehicular cycling".

#1 Your bike IS a vehicle. It (and you) ARE NOT a car or a motorcycle. Each of those vehicles are distinctly different types of vehicles as well and, in fact, in most places require separate types of registering, licensing and training for motorcycles and automobiles.

# 2 if you ride your bike "like a car" your thinking will be inappropriate to the actual vehicle you are using. If you ride your bike like a bike and follow the laws of your state you will be better off- this is the problem when the automobile is the predominant means by which a person travels- it can be difficult to transition out of the auto mindset. "Vehicular Cycling" is not riding a bike like you would drive a car. it is: Riding a bike like it is a vehicle with the right to be on the road. This may sound like I'm being overly picky but it makes a difference not only "politically" but in terms of your actual safety.

# 3 learn the laws in your state both in terms of general traffic law and laws specific to the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and use them as your guide. Some states allow bicyclists to " split lanes".

# 4 and yes, as you point out, USE COMMON SENSE. And be exceptionally cautious and disciplined around trucks, vans, buses and any large vehicle that may have greater visibility challenges.