I would use a mtn bike. But i guess it depends what you get by whats around you. If you have nice rodes and like to go fast. Then a rode bike. If there are places to go off rode and you like to ride up curbs. Then get a mtn bike. I ve used a mtn bike for years and I'm still not board. Although there is a section of rode I like to ride on and I'm think of buying a rode bike.

Ive never had any problems with my old trek 3700. My giant revel is about the same bike and it is also still going strong.

Here are some tips.
Wear a helmet
Use lights at night
Use your hand signals
Watch for cars, people, dogs, potholes, anyting that would be bad to hit.
Wear bight color cloths, neon green, yellow, red and white.