I cut away from me mostly, also do the crossover hand thing once in a while.
I love my slotted ruler - it's like training wheels for the cutter.
AND --- the most important thing -- if I start thinking "oh, I better be careful " I STOP.
Too many times, the next cut - I nick myself.
So, listen to that little angel on your shoulder - do not use a rotary cutter when you're tired or "under the influence". Just like the medicine bottles "do not operate heavy machinery"
It should also say "or quilting cutters!"