The ransomware scenario is serious, but merely opting out of a connected car yourself won't be enough. You can still get a text demanding payment or other cars on the road will ram into your manual.

As for sharing roads with others who fear death as much as I do. That's a wonderful idea, however in my case a pipe dream. I share the roads with people who have no problem speeding, driving under the influence or even refusing to use seatbelts.

Ultimately I'm more optimistic about solving the ransomware problem than I am about putting the fear of death into other humans.