'Bents are definitely different in traffic.
On the good side:
- You are funny looking which is good for being noticed
- Demographics not known for their love of cyclists tend not to lump you with the group they hate -- rather they respond with more curiosity
- People think you have some kind of physical disability and/or are in greater danger than everyone else
- You'll get cut more space
On the bad side
- You're lower and less visible when you're right next to vehicles.
- Handling is not as good as a DF
- Eyeballs closer to headlight level, especially if you do recumbent trikes
No way I'd wear anything other than clipless. Having to clip in and out constantly may be a pain, but it's better than having your feet slip off the pedals, especially in a critical situation.