Wow, I never saw the stats, but I always hated going to the hospital. The way I saw it, that's where folks go to die. Nice to know my apprehension was well justified.

As far as ranking areas by crime level, I'd say in general that makes some sense. However, there are places in New York City, such as parts of Queens, parts of Brooklyn, even parts of Manhattan, that I would not ever venture into without body armor and firepower; that is based on experience. I think most cities have similar sections where outsiders, naive fools, and those who openly display their affluence ought not venture without a suitable deterrent. To characterize a city as inherently more dangerous I think is too generalized. I simply don't go to those areas unless I need to, and then I go in prepared. That is the rational fear thing working for me.

Nuff said I reckon.