http://zimride.com
The biggest danger hitchhiking is being alone on the road, without a ride.
Hard to say if getting rides is more dangerous.
Perception of risk is rarely accurate.
There used to be a lot of open houses around the country.
Couchsurfing was created partially in response to the end of that trend.
A friend of mine from vancouver hitched across the country with no problems.
She was wearing mail and carrying a sword across her back, and she has attitude.
Don't know if that made a difference.
I recommend carrying pepperblaster.
When I give someone a ride, I send their info to someone else.
It's not an unreasonable precaution.
I think people are more reluctant to offer rides these days unless pre-arranged, as on cl.