[whistler]

I don't think people are less careless because of safety features. I think they are more concerned with the cost and headaches of an accident. rather than harm to themselves.
I have seen people jump their trucks, no helmet, cage, etc. I am sure they are not thinking, "If I end up on my head, everything will be ok since I have airbags".

 

[whistler]

I agree. There is a video with a person trying to hijack a car. He fails because he can not drive a stick.
Yes, the dumbing down is true. There is a commercial where a kid and his friend are stuck with a flat tire. The kid ask his friend "is this a lug wrench". Sad but true.
The upside? A lot more work for people in your occupation.
One safety addition I agree with is the ABS braking system. People say you can pump the brakes yourself but it is impossible during a panic braking situation. I learned how to go around things in my 83 Ford diesel.