Whether you drive 600 miles a year in your RV (recreational vehicle) or 6,000, you need to have suitable insurance protection before hitting the road. Because insurance policies tailored to the needs of motor homes, recreational vehicles, fifth-wheels and/or travel trailers vary from state-to-state and policy-to-policy, it is important to insure your RV with at least the basics.
Most insurance specialists agree that Comprehensive coverage is a must, as it covers most direct, sudden, and accidental losses including those caused by collision, theft, vandalism, fire, smoke, landslide, windstorm, lightning and hail. You might also want coverage for RV awnings, satellite dishes, and other accessories. There are even policies that cover emergency expenses, including lodging or travel expenses home if the RV is damaged or destroyed by a covered loss while more than 50 miles away from home.
Look for an insurance policy that provides adequate campsite/vacation liability, coverage for when the RV is parked, and for when you are using the RV as a temporary residence. Because it protects the RV from costly depreciation, Total Loss Replacement coverage might also prove to be useful and is well worth the minimal added cost. With Total Loss Replacement coverage, the RV owner gets a new RV of similar kind and quality if the vehicle is destroyed within its first five model years. This is unlike standard Automobile policies that only pay the actual cash value of the RV at the time it is destroyed. You can also add Replacement Cost coverage on personal belongings that are stolen from the RV or destroyed while in the RV.
RV owners should also consider buying a special Stationary policy that offers extensive comprehensive and contents coverage if the RV is used as a seasonal or permanent residence. This includes coverage for liability, medical payments to others, and property damage claims caused by an accident for which RV owners may be held liable. Your Homeowners or Auto insurance policies might not cover exposures related to the use of your RV as a residence – even if just seasonally.
Because such special coverage policies vary from one state to the next and some coverages aren’t offered in all states, it is important to do your homework, or better yet, your “RVwork,” and find a policy that suits your travel needs.
