Rabbits are very sociable creatures and need socialization. Playing dead and staying still is one of the ways rabbits try to tell the world that they need some attention.
Another way rabbits try to get attention is by running away. They can run fast and can easily escape if you let them. You might think that playing dead and staying still will help a rabbit avoid being chased and caught. But, these two strategies are only effective if the rabbit has enough time to do so. In most cases, rabbits will only get away if you let him/her go free and then keep an eye on him/her.