Torrents. questions please answer?

I have many questions about (Torrents) and the uTorrent Client. I am a average PC user with general knowledge on this subject. I know how to use it but I am afraid to. I understand there is a huge push for more piracy laws. My question- is what is the safest way? if people comment on the torrent giving it thumbs up etc. is it safe? not virus wise but piracy wise. If it says oh say 18000 downloaded this torrent. does that mean it is less likely tracked?