One reason in my opinion why hunting is one of the safest sports you can be involved in is that most states require young hunters to pass a firearms safety course. States usually have thousands of volunteer instructors each year give firearms safety training. In fact in Utah alone I'll bet 15,000-20,000 young hunters take these courses each year.
On another note, I think this topic started by Hillacious is an important one. I appreciate that along with the myths and misconceptions that non-hunters have about hunting, you've included definitive proof backed by stats and research to refute what those people are saying. It's helped put things in perspective for me and I look forward to reading the rest of your list...

I agree #12. Having training for young hunters that focus on handling firearms safely, ethics, laws, and regulations are the cornerstone for the safety of our sport. I would also add that a young hunter's dad doesn't hand his kid a gun, give him a pat on the butt and say, "Go get em Johnny". Father's, grandfathers, and uncles are usually flanking him on all sides giving pointers, sharing experiences and doing many things that continue with the learning process where Hunter's Safety leaves off.

Sherpa and #12 hit the nail on the head. The combination of hunter's safety and the guidance of fathers set the tone for a lifetime of safe, enjoyable experiences.
In recap, the misconceptions or things people perceive about our sport that I've found are #1: Hunters are being cruel to wild animals. #2: Hunters are dangerous, inept, inconsiderate or trigger happy.
This third thing I've come across a lot throughout my life and has been said repeatedly by one of my best friends. I don't buy it, and here's why...
Misconception #3: Hunters harm wildlife populations by unnaturally killing them.
Think about what hunters do simply out of the self-interest they have for the sport. They support state and federal conservation agencies which limit seasons to just a few weeks or months a year, limit the number of animals they kill, and place restrictions on killing females of some species. These regulations that hunters support help ensure that wildlife populations stay healthy. Also, they make the pursuit of game more difficult, requiring hunters to use their wits, patience, and hunting skills. Just my thoughts...