I've seen a few drips come down after an oil change that got into the suspension/steering components, but never have seen a 1/2qt to 1qt of oil puddled. I don't mean to worry you nor am I implying the other members are wrong - they know more about it than I do :P.
But if you did [/i]need[/i] to take the oil filter off and can't get it by hand, use a hammer and a screw driver. Pound the screw driver through and you can twist it out. You WILL get dirty. But it works and saves $15
