although i wouldn't want to be shot at all, ide sooner be hit with a slug than a high power rifle, i think you odds are better. ive shot deer in NY that have taken hits from 4 slugs, and nothing dramatic happened.
but as for the accidents. they will happen, i know how easy it is for your eyes to play tricks on you, esp when it is just starting to get light or getting dark, that is where it is the hunters responceablity to make sure of what he is shooting at, and know what is in the background.
as far as shooting yourself???? theres no reason for this what so ever, ive never seen a gun discharge by itself, at no time should that muzzle sweep you or another person. im willing to bet that you were walking with the tip of the muzzle rested on your foot, with your finger where it shouldn't of been. im sorry it happened, just remember the muzzle should always be pointed up, of strait out if front of you, UNLESS YOUR BEHIND SOMEONE. and never rested on your shoulder with the muzzle pointed back. guns dont misfire, hunters misfire guns.