Itt, it's hard to say what is a good plane to begin with. if there is a rc club around your place, the best thing would be to visit it and find out more about the hobby. it will not only get you more acquainted with the potential costs of the planes but it will also allow you to get to know people that will eventually help you learn to fly.

i don't know much about where you are, but i do believe that you can find nice people everywhere especially at the field. just be sincere and show genuine interest and i'm sure you'll get all the help you need to get started. although many setups cost $300 or more for all new equipment, i'm sure some people will be more than happy to part with their trainers for very little money as long as they know they are contributing to someone learning the hobby.

i urge you to try it out... go find a club or a LHS and see how they can help you learn. you are absolutely right about the planes crashing IF you don't get someone to help you. i've taught many people to fly and i've yet to have a crash on my watch.