I can only tell you some things about travel in Belgium.
The trains are reasonably reliable and time tables can be found on the internet :
http://www.b-rail.be/main/E/index.php
In the flemish speaking part of Belgium, most people speak english fairly well so asking for and getting directions should be no problem.You do have to ask though, people will not come up to you to help (like i've noticed americans will do when they spot some tourists that look lost
)
Most belgian people keep to themselves but that does not mean they do not like you, so do'nt let their attitude fool you !
As for safety : i do'nt know about the places you'll be visiting, but i guess it's the same as all over the world: use your common sense, rely on your instincts, do not stay in places that do not feel right to you,ask local people that you're staying with which areas you should avoid, also avoid deserted streets,do not wear an abundance of jewelry (i usually leave most of it at home), take copies of all your important documents (passport,driver's license,credit card,plane tickets and so on) and give them to your travel companions. That way, if you loose something, one of them will still have a copy. Just generally be carefull.
As for driving a car in Europe : unless you're used to driving in LA or Miami, you're in for a shock i guess. Europeans drive like madmen compared to Americans
Anyway, i truly hope you will enjoy Europe and will get to see a lot of it.
Are you planning on seeing more european countries and if so, which ones ?