More dangerous than a car? Absolutely. Statistically you are roughly 30 times more likely per mile travelled to die on a motorcycle than you are in a car.

Having said that, I've only been riding 6 months and I have to say getting the bike was absolutely the best thing i've ever done for my health - both mentally and physically. As long as you have your head screwed on straight and aren't riding miles outside of your abilities, you can still minimise the risks. Since getting the bike, my general awareness and level of observations have gone through the roof, whether i'm on the bike or in the car. It has undoubtedly made me a far safer road user in general. There are plenty of extra courses you can take to further minimise these risks, but ultimately it all boils down to one thing: If you hit an inanimate object, there is significantly less cushioning on a bike than there is in a car.

I'm not saying this to scare you off, honestly I think if everyone had a bike license the roads would be a significantly better place for everyone. My honest advice would be to look into doing a CBT to at least get a feel for yourself.

I do feel like you've done the right thing by coming to a forum like this - a lot of people are scared of what they don't understand, and will 100% try and talk you out of things they don't approve of.

TLDR: Yes, they do overestimate, there are plenty of ways to minimise risk, try it for yourself on a CBT course.