I went clipless a year ago. During the first few months I fell two or three times. I think that falling is part of the learning, sort of a rite of passage into a world of more efficient pedaling. I now err on the side of safety when stopping, and always disengage one (and usually both) cleats from the pedals. I have also taught myself to disengage earlier rather than later, especially when I am feeling at all tired. I have not fallen in a long time.

My next hurdle is to figure out how to disengage quickly and reliably in an emergency. A few times I have wanted to bail in a hurry, but could not. I have not had an accident as a result, but there have been some close calls. I think disengaging quickly is a skill that one can practice, at least to a point. I am much better at this now than in the past.

I do believe that using clipless pedals increases the risk of being unable to part company with your bike, and this can lead to a loss of control. I would be interested to hear from people who have tried different clipless pedal systems, and whether certain designs make it easier to disengage in a moment of panic.