I believe that statistically driving your car to the trailhead is far more dangerous and therefore far more fool hardy than hiking or climbing. If you are in a car accident driving to the trailhead you would expect the sheriff etc to come to your rescue. The other option is to never leave home. If someone has a heart attack at home they come and take you away in an ambulance. The actual danger of SAR mountain rescues is born by volunteers mostly, who are mostly people who enjoy mountain activities and WANT to GIVE of THEMSELVES to HELP OTHERS who engage in these activities. PS - The number of hiker rescues in Yosemite far exceeds the climber rescues.
just my $.03 worth.
Jim
