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Recreational vehicles do more than just carry you from one place to another; they transport you with an eye toward maximum fun and/or comfort along the way. Just because some of these vehicles are associated with playtime, that doesn’t mean they don’t need the same insurance protection as any other piece of expensive property you own. In fact, they may need more insurance since they also create a potential for liabilities.
Liability Insurance for Recreational Vehicles
Your recreational vehicle is, just like an automobile, a moving vehicle that can cause bodily injury and property damage to others. In order to help pay for any damage you inadvertently inflict, you should secure liability insurance. This policy can also help cover the cost of environmental cleanup after an accident that causes the spillage of a toxic chemical or other pollutant.
Liability coverage will have limits that work on both a per-incident and per-policy basis. They may also have a deductible that requires an out-of-pocket contribution for each incident or year.
Property Coverage
After you’ve considered the potential liabilities you are exposed to while operating a recreational vehicle, it’s time to secure coverage for the value of the vehicle itself. Recreational vehicle coverage can include financial compensation in the event of physical damage, vandalism, theft and collision. In addition, your policy may allow for reimbursement of personal effects stored on a vehicle such as an RV, boat or snowmobile.
In some cases, you may want to consider adding specialized coverage for additional risks including the loss or damage of awnings and custom equipment. If you have an RV that you live in part or full time, you may need extended protection so be sure to discuss that with your agent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recreational Vehicle (RV) Insurance
What Is Recreational Vehicle Insurance?
Recreational vehicle (RV) insurance provides coverage for RVs, such as motorhomes, travel trailers, and camper vans. Typical coverages include liability, collision, and comprehensive, as well as coverage for personal property, roadside assistance, and vacation liability.
Who needs insurance for recreational vehicles?
Just as with a car, RV owners and operators are required to have insurance. It is essential to protect yourself and your assets in the event of an accident or other unforeseen event.
What is covered by recreational vehicle insurance?
RV insurance typically includes liability coverage, which pays for damages or injuries you cause to others, collision coverage, which pays for damages to your RV if you are at fault in an accident, and comprehensive coverage, which pays for non-collision events such as theft, fire, or natural disasters. There may be additional coverage options for personal property, roadside assistance, and vacation liability.
How does the price of RV insurance compare to that of auto insurance?
The cost of RV insurance can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the type and value of the RV, the age and driving record of the owner, and the coverage options chosen. RV insurance is typically more expensive than auto insurance due to the larger size and higher value of RVs, as well as the possibility of additional coverage options.
Can I insure my RV if I use it only occasionally or seasonally?
Yes, you can insure your RV even if you use it only occasionally or seasonally. Numerous insurers offer coverage options for part-time or seasonal use and will prorate the premium based on the number of days the RV is in use.
Do I need a specific type of license to operate an RV?
It depends on the RV’s size and weight. If the RV weighs less than 26,000 pounds, no special license is typically required. If the RV weighs more than 26,000 pounds, however, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be required. Consult your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for information on specific requirements.