Bike paths or as they call them here "muli-use" paths, generally run parallel to roadways. Consequently they cross the cross streets well in and away from the stop line for traffic trying to enter the main road.
When a "multi-use path" user crosses these side streets on the bike path, they actually have to concern themselves with traffic behind them on the main road, that turning left off the main road as well as the traffic on the path AND traffic coming to the intersection from the side street. The "multi-use path" user has no apparent right of way over anyone.
On the other hand, when using the main roadway, the cyclist like other vehicles is in the intercection itself, going with the flow of traffic. The cyclist is in the field of vision (though sometimes not the comprehension) of traffic approaching from any direction. I actually feel safer using the road since traffic moving with me tends to shield me from danger posed from the sides.
Carl
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Just Peddlin' Around