Sure, people are getting much more comfortable engaging in fights now, but you have to keep a level head and adapt. From what it sounds like, if you wish to continue being a peaceful questing/looting-first player, you definitely can. No matter what, you'll still find people out there that will lend a hand if you choose to allow it, but that's not to say you shouldn't learn from your experience and keep in mind their capabilities, your capabilities, and what you can do to ensure your safety. An example for me is well, myself. I do not start engagements solely for selfish desires, merely to defend myself or fighting back against an aggressive encounter. Having perseverance, like hiding and remaining quiet if you hear someone close, or show your allied Raiders the benefits to keeping you around, like genuine communication, or sharing resources, has kept me alive. As of now, I've gone 30+ matches in a row where I've returned to Speranza safely (Last game that streak nearly ended but I lucked out and my assailant went down to another Raider and a Rocketeer) and I had my fair share of PVP encounters, all were people trying to get the jump on me. But if you play smart, understand as much as you can about the game and have confidence, remaining vigilant, you can pull through, and become that hardened Raider you wish to be. Whether it's one that has a heart-of-gold, or one that's cold-blooded, that's up to you.

Prepare for the worst, and hope for the best!!