Yes, that feels like an unnecessary broadening on their part. The data (second graph) already makes the point for them: NYC did better on murder rates than everywhere except fringe counties in 2020, and even beat them in the years before.

Keep in mind they are comparing to an average, not a median or 50th percentile of each category.

If you drive (or mow) recklessly, you are at a heightened risk of death, but it is still a pretty random occurrence. If not, you have a much lower risk, and it is still pretty random should it actually occur.

If you are involved in gang or other criminal behavior, you are a heightened risk of death, but it is still a pretty random occurrence. If not, you have a much lower risk, and it is still pretty random should it actually occur.

I think it is pretty fair to lump them in together.

If you drive or mow recklessly, you suffer the results of your own choices. If you get mugged or shot on a city street, you've suffered the result of someone else's choices. Many experience more angst over the choices outside their control. I can't say I blame them.

And yet people have very little angst getting out on a road filled with other people poorly driving massive overpowered vehicles at high rates of speed.

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=32183007

Probably because these people have a false sense of control when they drive.

I would guess you can decrease your driving risk if you want by 90% by driving sober, not speeding, not tailgating, and not playing on your phone.

Not complete control, but pretty good.

Sure, and if you're struck by lightning, you were probably outdoors of your own volition, so own up to it already!

However, one scenario would have you operating heavy machinery more often.