Okay - this is making me feel more an more at ease! I guess its time to conquer my fears and go for it. Seems like I can practice alot and plan in advance.

The pedals I'm looking at have clips on both sides (Shimano M520 Easy) - but some of you have mentioned having the platform on one and the clip on the other so you can be unclipped and pedal if you need to. Is this a better beginner pedal? The bike guy said its easier to clip in if both sides have the clips - but I'm most nervous about clipping out. A friend of mine said that she would often unclip way in advance and then pedal unclipped - is there a way to rest your foot on the pedal without clipping in?

This is so silly to be so frightened - but when my friend fell into that car it really freaked me out and I vowed never to go clipless. Just terrifies me to be stuck to my bike. But then it sounds like its the best route to go - easier to gain some speed which I'm anxious to do.