When I commute to work I go through a four-way stop light that crosses above a major freeway. In Minnesota bike riders ride in the same direction as the traffic. When I approach the stoplight the pedestrian signal is crossed out and you are supposed to go to the left, cross the intersection, and then go forward from there. This is a fairly busy intersection and I usually do have to stop. My question is do I stay with traffic flow and continue on or should I also go to the left and cross the intersection. It is strange because there are pedestrian sidewalks on the both side of the road -although I don't use them because they aren't good for riding. There must be a reason for the lights being that way but I sure can’t figure it out. There are no bike lanes on either side of the road.

I tried to draw it out here
\/ /\
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========== (intersecton where the pedestrian on the right side should go left and then forward.)
| |
\/ /\

As long as you've already got the lane, just maintain it to get through the intersection. If you're on the sidewalk, someone else will have to field this question.

If you are in pedestrian mode (using facilities for people walking), do exactly as a pedestrian would.

If you are in vehicular mode, that is driving your bike as if a slow moving narrow vehicle using facilities provided for vehicles, then continue as if a vehicle.

Either may work well, but be most careful if switching between each mode - that if you do you make it a distinct switch and other drivers and pedestrians know your intent in advance.

Al

You might be able to post a google maps view of the intersection, that seems to help alot for the experts to assist.

You said you were not using the sidewalk, and mentioned a lack of bike lanes but more like it was unique to the intersection? From this conclusion I say: take the lane at a reasonable and safe distance and keep it until you are through the intersection.

+1 If you're riding your bike, act like a driver. If walking the bike act like a pedestrian.

Are there any states that actually require bikes to be ridden against traffic?

Well on my way home I saw a roady riding against traffic, almost nailed him on my right turn. He probably didn't know better and all that spandex was forcing the blood to his head impeding judgement as well.

I felt like pulling a U and giving him a piece of my mind though.

[QUOTE Are there any states that actually require bikes to be ridden against traffic?[/QUOTE]

No not in the US
however most of latin and south america Do require you to ride against traffic
which is why one sees so many invisible Cyclists riding the wrong way

Steve

Huh? I don't recall ever having to ride against traffic when touring through Mexico and Central America.
Do you have some cites?

No not in the US
however most of latin and south america Do require you to ride against traffic
which is why one sees so many invisible Cyclists riding the wrong way

Steve[/QUOTE]

I see lots of cyclists going the wrong way but I have never seen any invisible cyclists.