If you are falling, come down on your knees, then extend arms, fall on the wrist guard and slide forward. The plastic surface on protective gear is designed for sliding. As you slide, you spread out the impact on as many body parts as possible. The Highland Park class members struggle to get up and take turns practicing falls. People put their arms out to break a fall and wind up breaking a limb.
Ignorance is anything but bliss.
I want to learn, so I don't make mistakes. Before you step onto the pavement, practice maneuvers on grass or carpet. Walk around with toes pointed slightly outward. This is how you'll push off, once you're rolling on the pavement. Whether you are a beginner or you've been skating awhile, you can benefit from instruction to learn or refine your technique.