I can understand your hesitation, especially since you saw the results of an accident...
However you can greatly reduce your risks, no salmon-ing, no ninja, ride with traffic and off sidewalks, oh and sober... Each are factors that DOUBLE fatalities (of course some fatalities are drunk, sidewalk riding, salmon, ninjas)...
I would suggest you listen to those above, but also prepare a little better. Test ride is the best confidence builder. Preparation is key to any endeavors success.
Have you got lights?
Running flat resistance tires?
Regardless, frame pump, tube and tire irons are good idea (and cheap)
Can you mount a rack to carry your stuff for you?
Mirrors help.
Lock? or other secure way to store your bike while working?
Do you ride for fun?
Longest ride of 11 would suggest not.
Try it, you'll like it!
Nice straight and VERY flat roads. Very little of my commute has as good visibility.
Cars are expensive to own and operate, each commute costs. Use that cost savings to pay for your patch kit, lights and such...
5 commutes by car probably cost you $50, just the way you spend the money is abstracted from day to day. it is easy to lose track of how much cars cost to run.