When it’s time to go camping we all get excited about the fun we’ll have. When you’re in the moment, having fun and enjoying family time you don’t think about what could go wrong.
Unexpected things, however, can happen on vacation or simply while enjoying a weekend getaway. So while were not in vacation mode, let’s think about how be protected in case of an unexpected event or emergency. Example, a storm rears up and a tree branch falls on your RV and tears a gaping hole in the roof, are you covered for this by your insurance? Are you really sure?
What about getting injured at the campground, or more importantly, what if someone else gets injured at your campsite are you liable? Would your insurance cover you and pay for damages? With personal injury lawyers haunting every step we take, it’s advisable to make sure you’re protected. You could be found liable if someone gets hurt on your campsite, because of something you left out, like a bicycle.
When we think about vacation it’s hard to think about what could go wrong. Sadly though, we can all unexpectedly fall into harm’s way through no fault of our own. Thinking about legalities and coverage is not how you want to spend your vacation, so considering it in advance and knowing what your policy covers and that you have the protection that is right for your family will allow you to relax and have the vacation that you deserve.
Most folks believe that their auto insurance will cover their fifth wheel or trailer, they would partially be right. When a 5th wheel or travel trailer is connected to your tow vehicle you do have liability insurance at the same coverage limits as your truck. This is a good start, however, it does not cover other important items like:
- Total Loss Replacement vs Actual Cash Value Policies – If your RV becomes a total loss do you have enough coverage to replace it? If actual cash value is thousands less than replacement cost does your policy cover that?
- Personal Contents Coverage – When an RV is sitting in storage or unattended at a campground it can become the target for thieves. Not only are your personal belongings at risk but major appliances in your coach as well.
- Vacation Liability – While the RV is parked if someone injures themselves in your campsite or inside your coach this liability protects you just like your homeowners policy. This is why you need RV insurance, not just an auto policy.
- Full-Timer Coverage – Most insurance companies won’t cover full timers. This is coverage that is available only through specialty RV insurance companies. When you spend more than 5 ½ months of the year in your RV you will be required to purchase full-timer liability coverage. .
- Diminishing Deductibles – Some policies now reward drivers for safe driving habits. Every loss free year you have your deductible will reduce by a quarter.
- Fire Protection – It’s important to remember that an RV is basically a traveling home with electrical systems, LP gas systems, and other fire hazards.
- Emergency Vacation Expenses – Reimbursement for expenses incurred if you have covered loss or breakdown. (ie: lodging, alternate transportation, food, and necessities)
- Uninsured Motorist – Sadly there are thousands of cars on the roadways with drivers that have absolutely no insurance. Be sure you have sufficient coverage for this event. See Previous Blog titled: UM/UIM
- Companion Auto – This coverage is exclusively offer under the specialty RV program. Typical insurance you would have separate deductibles. If both items are damage in the same loss you will have one deductible. You also have the option for Auto Loan/Lease Payoff coverage “GAP”
- Get a copy of your insurance policy and read it. Yes, it will be boring reading but so many consumers don’t read the fine print. When it comes to protecting your assets from lawsuits. Make double sure you have the appropriate coverage to protect your families’
Other considerations when choosing specialty RV insurance include traveling from state-to-state, are you just as covered in Texas as you are in California? Be sure to get clarification before you sign up. As with any insurance there are conditions where the insurance company won’t pay a claim for an item that is excluded from coverage. Know what is included and excluded in your policy before purchasing.
It’s not hard to find a comprehensive policy that protects you!
Claims processing: Do your homework to make sure that if you do have to utilize your policy, claims processing is expedited and fair. Let your agent guide you but also check reviews online for additional information.
Motorhomes need to have different consideration than fifth wheels and trailers when deciding on and purchasing coverage. These are completely different assets that require a different type of insurance coverage. You would not purchase renters insurance on your custom built house nor should you buy a basic auto insurance policy on your RV.
You especially want to look at a total loss protection policy when insuring your motorhome. Motorhomes can depreciate literally tens of thousands of dollars as soon as you drive off the lot. Make sure that your policy picks up any shortfall.
Standard auto insurance liability will cover your travel trailer while it’s attached to your vehicle, however; liability ceases the moment you disconnect them. Coverage would be limited to the bodily injury and property damage limits that are on the auto policy. Be sure you are familiar with your auto insurance policy guidelines.
Stuff happens and it’s usually at the most inopportune times. Make sure that your camping and RV experience is a happy one, even in the face of disaster. With the proper coverage, you can rest easy and happily enjoy your camping vacation.
For those of you that are retired, this could not be more true. If you have a great deal of your retirement hinged on RV travel, protection of your assets are most important.
In today’s world, you simply can’t be too cautious with your personal property and assets. No one likes the thought of having to spend more money. The real question is can you afford a serious issue should the unexpected occur. Most of us living in the real world need the protection a good insurance company provides. Don’t make the mistake of being the one that says you just want the minimum coverage.
We’re not suggesting to over insure yourself however; we certainly suggest you cover yourself and assets properly. If you would like us to review your current RV policy or provided you with a free no obligation quote you can contact us at 844-727-7207.