Most motorcycle crashes happen at low speed, then inexperienced riders, then after winter, or something like that. So, ride year round, a lot and always fast (don't).

Fortnine has a good video about it with some statistics, it kinda boils down to always wear all the gear, like others here have said, and ease into it after a break. Whether it's a week or 6 months, a day you haven't ridden, is a day you've lost feeling for YOUR bike. (that last sentence is my addition)

I ride a lot, have for years, ride like a hooligan sometimes and have laid down my bike 3 times, all below 30km/h.

The dangerous part is that small and minor mistakes can have huge consequences, they are not proportional. But there are many ways to mitigate the risk and I think it all starts with attention to detail and all the other good suggestions made in this thread.

I have a Helite air jacket that I bought after being in an accident last year that I’m fairly confident would have prevented the injuries that landed me in the hospital if I would have had it at the time. I’m now in process of upgrading to a bike with ABS brakes

Statistically, it is more risk than a car. But like any risk, you can mitigate parts of it. As mentioned, accidents have patterns. Learn how to navigate intersections, how to identify and prepare for potential right-of-way violations, and how to reduce your speed during a corner. Take at least a basic rider course. Understand your limits. Over confidence is extremely dangerous, particularly for new riders. Never mix bikes and intoxicants.

This sounds like a lot, but its really a few hours of work and taking it easy while you learn.