But don't forget the RP. Personally I don't like to see things like "I'd rather die than pay", and I'd certainly never say it myself. I can't see any reason for a trader to put a greater value on the cargo, when compared to his ship and life. Unless you're being hired to deliver something of course.
In fact, I'm starting to do the following whenever I get killed
Sell my ship, sell all my weapons, sell my shield.
Buy a new ship, etc.
Keeps me in the right frame of mind whenever I get in a fight.