TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2013
Spring is here and it’s time to pull the RVs out of storage and hit the road for fun and sun. But before you load up the s’mores and the kids, you need to make sure you and your RV are covered. If your RV is covered by an auto insurance policy, you are inadequately protected and run the risk of problems in the event of damage, injury or more.
 Today’s RVs are not just autos. With cozy beds, full-loaded kitchens and recliners, RVs are homes in every sense of the word, and in fact, are full-time residences for nearly 2 million people. This is why RV insurance is a must for RV owners.
What is RV Insurance and Why Do I Need It?
RV insurance combines home and auto insurance coverage to provide comprehensive protection of things such as vehicle collision, natural weather damage, vandalism, theft and personal property. While traditional auto insurance will not provide any medical or legal coverage to someone while on your RV property, RV insurance will.
RV insurance also covers valuable add-ons to the RV such as awnings, electronics and satellite dishes that don’t apply to traditional auto insurance policies and vital elements such as tow kits are also covered. Many RV policies cover issues with your campsite and emergency expenses as well as the personal belongings you take with you when using your RV. Some RV policies extend coverage to the trucks used to tow the RV as well.
Can I Afford RV Insurance?
Actually, using RV insurance usually saves customers money. Many companies offer discounts for already insured parties and RV owners who only use their RVs part-time during the year can usually suspend the collision and liability coverage seasonally by opting for a storage option on the policy. If you are a full-time RV dweller, you can opt for full-time coverage which includes injury protection in and around the RV, personal liability coverage and coverage for personal items.
Insurance coverage for different types of RVs is also rated differently, so a Class A motor home will not be charged the same as a Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel. When you are requesting rate quotes, be sure to tell your agent all the safety features of your RV such as anti-theft devices, smoke alarms, and security systems and so on, and mention your safe driving record for additional savings.
What Features Should I Look For in My Coverage?
Specialized RV policies should cover more than your average auto policy, so look for things such as:
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Total Loss Replacement, which would cover a new RV within the first five model years and would replace the RV with a similar unit in the event of total loss. This is valuable considering the steep RV depreciation rate.
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Replacement cost of personal belongings, which gives you the option to specify an amount to cover all or part of your personal belongings destroyed by most events.
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Campsite liability, which is designed for short-term traveling and is similar to a homeowner’s policy. Full timer liability is available for those using their RV as a primary residence.
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Higher Liability Limits, because RVs are larger than most cars, and have a greater loss or damage potential. Higher limits provide greater protection in accidents
Because your RV is your home on wheels, you need to insure it like one. A thorough RV insurance policy will save you money and trouble in the long run and allow you to enjoy your travels, knowing you are covered wherever you go.
By Matt Reynolds - Google+
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