Toronto

Agreed that generally taking the lane is to force cars to notice you and not encourage them to pass when it isn't safe. For instance, in Toronto there's a lot of construction happening, so sometimes there will be two lanes that merge into one for a short bit because of the construction (Bloor around Parliament/Sherbourne is an example). In those circumstances, I'll clearly take the lane. But when it's a regular two lane road at a traffic stop, I won't, because there's enough room for a car and bike to be side by side in these circumstances. Yes, I realize it's perfectly legal for me to take the lane, but, just as I appreciate cars that give me space, I also feel it's a good practice to give cars space as well. To be clear, I'm not excusing the reckless and criminal behaviour of the car driver. The actions of the car driver were criminal and he should face the full force of law.