> Mixing cyclists and pedestrians causes a whole set of different problems (and injuries).

The other issue is that pedestrians do not typically follow traffic rules while walking. That is, they won't keep to one side of the path, they won't signal their intention to change direction in advance, etc. This makes it much more difficult to ride among them compared to riding in traffic where drivers do generally follow the rules.

Much easier to bike in rush hour as well. Lane splitting lets you beat traffic, and it's of course way easier to dodge a 5mph car in a lane versus a pedestrian wandering all over the sidewalk with zero situational awareness on their phone with headphones.

Lane splitting at more than a walking speed is quite dangerous and illegal where I live.

Yes, lane splitting is illegal where I live as well. And I think that's appropriate.

Nah, I find this to be is suicidal. Not to mention, that even when I get away with this kind of behaviour, the drivers stuck in traffic will be irritated by it and might not be as considerate to the next cyclist passing by.

I'd rather stay on the right, if traffic is too bad I would get off the bicycle and walk the intersection until traffic clears.