for the Op I wud add my 2 cents: follow your intuition. also there is an ebb and flow to commuting traffic. for example Friday evening drivers tend to be faster and more hectic. if you're gonna skip a day commuting skip a Friday, especially before a holiday. also when there are big changes in the seasons there are changes in traffic patterns and driving behavior. like the switchover from summer to fall, there are many new drivers on the rd. my daughter being one of them. cycling in bad weather can be fun, even sleet and snow, etc. lightening though can be a game ender. if you're gonna skip a day, skip they day they predict lightening. stay consistent, meaning commute the same roads at the same times so you get used to the drivers who take that route and they do you as well. of course there will be new vehicles everyday but for the most part we are creatures of habit and take the same routes at the same times every day. if you miss your time slot be prepared for a testy ride. not saying skip it, but if you're gonna skip a day, might as well skip the day you are an hour or more off your regular time. be prepared for the road rage. meaning someday there is gonna be an ahole who buzzes you on purpose and you're gonna wanna tear his head off when you catch up to him at the next stop sign. chant serenity now if you can and resist the urge. take a plate # if you want and report him, but try not to escalate the situation. it is better to live to fight another day, right? happy trailz!