I disagree on both points. I believe the reason MUPs are more dangerous (or at least as dangerous) than roads is because most riders on the MUP believe they are safer so they do not take the normal safety precautions. A head on collision between two cyclists going 20 MPH on the MUP is catastrophic - I saw the results. Cyclists on the road, however, know they need to pay attention and as a result they are safer.

It is your attitude and actions while riding that determine your safety, regardless of whether you ride on the road or the MUP.