The reason that toe-clips/cage have the reputation of being dangerous is that, if used properly (tightening the straps down tightly so the foot doesn't move), the chance of your foot not releasing from the toe-clip/cage if you crash is pretty high. The injuries sustained by torquing your leg in such a crash can be pretty traumatic. This is one of the primary reasons why clipless pedals are touted as "safer" than toe-clips/cages. Clipless pedals are designed (like ski bindings) to release if you crash, freeing your foot from the bike.

Now, if you never crash, toe-clips aren't dangerous, right?

Lorri