My first ride on a 2-wheeler ended with a collision into the rear tire of a moving van that blocked my path at an intersection. I was a kid riding on the sidewalk. The movers were very nice men who all jumped out and made sure the bike and I were OK. I have hit at least 3 other cars over the past 40+ years. One hit me but didn't even knock me down.

So I can't argue with the OP. I didn't even make it five full minutes on my first bike ride.

I've been hit by a car. I was crossing at a bike path crossing and the car to my right was going to fast. I stopped, they stopped, then a minivan nailed me from the left. I actually injured the van more than it injured me, but I consider myself very lucky. His insurance company was very happy to pay the $150 to buy me new bar tape, a mirror, new fenders and new cycling gloves. The adjuster was afriad of the extent of my injuries since I did about $3,500 to the van...I trashed his fender, took off is rearview mirror and dented the door panel. Physically I had some bruising on my hip and some scratches on my hands. Most of the close calls I've had have been when not riding in traffic. I agree that cycling is not the same as adult commuter cycling and would bet that adult commuter cycling is less risky than "all" cycling. Still, just because I've been hit doesn't mean I think it is a given that you will be hit if you ride. Be aware of the danger and mitigate it to the extent you can. Beyond that, people make mistakes and accidents happen. It won't keep me off my bike, and it won't prevent me from riding on roads.

The sobering irony of quoting this page from Ken Kifer's site is that he was later struck by a car and killed while riding his bike. It doesn't mean his stats weren't true, but for this to happen to a very experienced cyclist who preached and wrote about bike safety, it just makes me think it can happen to anyone. (note: can not will).