It's not about wimping out. You don't feel safe riding on the road and so you shouldn't. It's not for everyone. But you shouldn't project your perspective on to others either.

I think most people find a way to rationalize risks or become paralyzed by them. You can't bubble wrap the world. Do I think there is a statistical chance I could get smoked by a car? Yes. I work to minimize that by riding defensively. You rationalize it by choosing to ride on trails. The truth is that neither of us really knows what will eventually kill us. Could be a car driving in the shoulder.. could be an awkward header when a bike makes a left turn in front of you on a MUP.

At this point I choose not to let the risk of an accident keep me from fully enjoying all the benefits that road touring continues to provide me. I have to live in the now, not the better future.