join the club & seek out a couple of good experienced flyers willing to teach(that way you have a back up) the advantages to the beginner far out weigh the dues. you'll have opportunity to learn what works & get trouble shooting advice as well as see what else is out there to advance your skills. then you can start your own field if you want. the insurance issue is one of prevention& its not out of the realm of possibility.these are not toys. these "rengades" often do far more damage to the hobby than their "right " to be independent warrants.