Crossroads are also a good place to practice some lingering rear observations on the approach. It suggests the rider might be about to turn but more importantly, denies the opportunity for an eyeline with the driver.
Eye contact is useful for close proximity but at distance it can justify a pull out on the basis 'the cyclist has seen me'. Looking away - with a keen ear on changing engine notes - is often more effective at pinning down an undecided driver than looking at them.
My observations are purely opinion, based on 40+ years road cycling, they are not a right answer. Indeed, I believe standard 'rules', like an unreconstructed approach to primary positioning, is counter productive to rider safety. A good rider will be prepared to press on or abandon a strategy depending on the volatility of his environment.
Eye contact is useful for close proximity but at distance it can justify a pull out on the basis 'the cyclist has seen me'. Looking away - with a keen ear on changing engine notes - is often more effective at pinning down an undecided driver than looking at them.
My observations are purely opinion, based on 40+ years road cycling, they are not a right answer. Indeed, I believe standard 'rules', like an unreconstructed approach to primary positioning, is counter productive to rider safety. A good rider will be prepared to press on or abandon a strategy depending on the volatility of his environment.