Indeed, there are times where it is very unsafe to obey these laws. Yes, cyclists can legally have one ear covered with an earphone but that is nowhere near as dangerous. Even more compelling is the fact that bicyclists wait at stop lights and stop signs which were put in place simply because of the danger posed by motor vehicles. We are breathing harder and are not the ones polluting. We deserve to be spared from this harmful imposition.
Pollution tends to be highest at stops.
Athletes need to come to a stop slowly and cool down or they risk cardiac arrest and other problems. Only the hyper-intolerant or uninformed find a problem. Cycling helps everyone yet is discouraged. Give cyclists right of way to help correct this unfairness. Pedestrians aren't required to stop at stop signs, yet can run through them much faster than most bicyclists would.