Have you ever noticed insurance companies advertising at RV shows? They are not necessarily everywhere, but they do show up from time to time. They know they have a captive audience consisting of people who, if they are serious about buying, are really serious.
RV insurance is similar to car insurance in some ways but different in others. What concerns insurance companies the most is that so many consumers don’t seem to know how it all works. They find themselves having to explain things a customer should have known only after a claim is filed.
If you are new to the RV scene, here are the top five things insurance companies want you to know:
1. RV Insurance Is Mandatory
RVs are considered motor vehicles in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. As such, RV insurance is mandatory as well. Only Virginia and New Hampshire allow you to operate an RV without insurance coverage. But even then, you either have to pay an additional fee for doing so or prove your ability to cover the cost of an accident by filing a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate.
2. Comprehensive Insurance May Be Required
If you own your RV outright, which is to say that you do not lease it or owe on a loan, you can probably get away with carrying just liability insurance. Liability covers other people and property in the event of an accident you cause. However, you will be required to carry comprehensive insurance if you have a loan or you lease your RV.
Comprehensive insurance protects the lender or leaseholder against loss due to accident, fire, etc. The states allow lenders and leaseholders to buy insurance on your behalf – and charge you – if you fail to buy the insurance yourself. You will pay a lot more that way.
3. Some Things Aren’t Covered
Insurance policies vary in what they cover. Know this: no insurance policy covers everything. And in fact, very few cover water damage or frozen pipes. Insurance companies consider both types of damage the result of owner neglect, so they will not cover it. That is all the more reason to take the steps necessary to prevent water problems.
4. RV Skirting Is a Wonderful Thing
Expanding on the water damage idea, insurance companies want RV owners to know that skirting is a wonderful thing. A product like AirSkirts – inflatable skirting from a Connecticut company – provides an insulating barrier against cold air. A good skirting product can prevent frozen pipes and the subsequent damage they cause. Given that RV insurance doesn’t cover frozen pipes, it’s foolish to travel without RV skirting.
5. Frequent Use Costs More
Finally, RV insurance is a lot like motorcycle insurance in that you pay based on how frequently you use your vehicle. If your RV is for summer use only, you will pay significantly less compared to a full-time RVer. Just note that it is still a good carry insurance year-round. You never know when something will happen.
In closing, treat your RV insurance just like your car insurance. Shop around to make sure you are getting the best deal for exactly the coverage you need. Also be prepared to decide just how much coverage you can afford. There are different rate tiers just as there are for car insurance.
With all that said, welcome to the RV scene. Get out there enjoy everything America has to offer from the comfort of your own motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer. Make sure you have enough insurance to protect yourself in the event of loss. It is the smart thing to do.
