Okay, I'm being a bit of a smart aleck, but...

I haven't had any UA baggage woes lately...I haven't checked luggage with them in ages...a lot safer that way.

Good system, but of course sooner or later UAL will cancel your original flight and you'll be wait-listed for another one. You'll clear the waiting list at the last moment and by then there will not even be enough room in the overhead bin for your coat, let alone your luggage. Then you too will be forced to roll the dice by checking a bag with United.