Traffic laws are different for bicycles in some areas. I know that in Moscow, ID (home of the University of ID) bicycles are required to yield at stoplights and signs (a fantastic law) and may ride on the sidewalk but must yield to pedestrians. In Walla Walla, WA, however, you must obey the same traffic laws as cars. Of course, it depends on how strictly the cops choose to enforce said laws. You may also wear headphones while riding in Moscow, but not Walla Walla. Of course, I continue to follow the Moscow rules ... yield to cars rather than lights and signs. I also use cars, trucks and semis to block for me.