I 1000% agree there should be a hazard toggle but stuff like the bolded has its fans and has a legit game design purpose. Don't try to speak for everyone on those points.
When I get hit by a blue shell, I get back up, and I'm still in first.

But really, so many games have things like that. Air Strikes in COD piss me the hell off. Smash Bros. atleast has a final destination style for each stage, and it's the default in 'For Glory'