i get stressed out about the lefts too. no one really gave me a hassle about it, but i've decided to switch tactics for this year. so now, i'll find a way to go around the block instead of turning left. it seems like a waste of time but it actually is faster because i don't have to wait for a gap in rush-hour traffic or for the light to change. i think if more motorists did this, there would be far fewer accidents because people were making stupid lefts.

for more info on biking in traffic, google some search terms like 'bicycling traffic' etc, and check out the links on bike club websites. i think www.critical-mass.org has some good links too.

it sounds like you're already doing the things it took me a while to learN-- making eye contact, watching wheels, etc. the biggest help in my traffic/biking reaserch was emergency moves-- like to turn right if someone turns left into in an intersection.

i find the worst part about biking in traffic is dreading it-- doing it isn't actually that bad! good luck!