Originally Posted by
livedarklions
I've become very adept at hopping off the saddle and putting my feet down at such intersections. Serves the same purpose, no ambiguity.
I'm pretty sure your method wouldn't work around here, but it sounds like it does where you ride.
If I am in a situation where I must stop because another vehicle arrived before me I put foot down. But if one other vehicle is already stopped and should be ready to go I signal my stop so they go instead of waiting for me to put foot down. Then I can briefly pause and go.
Not sure what unique situations you have where you live but this works equally well in AZ, CA TX, VT and MA in my experience - especially if I am in left side of lane where you are most visible to others. It basically lets other drivers know you intend to follow the law and not assume you will blow through like some other cyclists tend to do.