The RV Insurance Guide

If you enjoy traveling, you may be considering buying an RV or renting one on a regular basis, like millions of other Americans. Or maybe you want to live a nomadic lifestyle and exchange your home or apartment for a mobile home. That’s why we have RV insurance. RVs have seen a tremendous increase in sales over the last ten years. According to the RV Industry Association, more than 11 million households in the United States own an RV.

RVs are becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages, from young professionals to retiring grandparents. For the freedom and flexibility to go where they want when they want, many people of every generation are investing in RVs. However, whether you’re on the road or simply parked in a campsite, having an RV comes with its own set of hazards. You’ll need to get an RV insurance policy that meets your state’s standards so your home away from home is covered. 

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Do You Need RV Insurance?

In short, RV insurance is typically required. Like car insurance, RVs must have at least enough liability and personal injury coverage to pay for the cost of any damage it causes. The minimum coverage requirements in states vary. Many clients also request that drivers be protected against accidents with individuals who are uninsured or underinsured.

48 out of 50 states require RV Insurance, with the exception of New Hampshire and Virginia. Regardless, it’s never good to drive without insurance. In place of standard RV insurance, you must purchase uninsured motor vehicle insurance or file an SR-22 Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate. If you’re renting an RV for a brief period, you’ll need insurance during that time as well. There are several choices in this scenario. You may buy an insurance package from the rental company or get third-party coverage through a non-affiliated provider. Credit cards with primary vehicle insurance do not always include RV rentals.

What Are The Different Types of RVs?

Class A

A class A RV is the largest model that serves as a motor home. They usually are the most expensive and luxurious with several features.

Class B

Class B RVs are campervans and naturally smaller than Class As. Class B RVs don’t exactly have a car chassis, but they also aren’t the size of buses.

Class C

Class C recreational vehicles have the chassis of pickup trucks. A class C RV may be larger than a Class B but not as luxurious. A signature feature of a class C RV is the raised roof over the cab.

Note that each class has its own insurance coverage limits that you should at least carry. Trailers that act as mobile homes do not need such insurance.

What Does RV Insurance Cost?

There are numerous aspects to consider when calculating the cost of RV insurance. Some of the most important elements include coverage limits, deductibles, storage location, and the value of the RV, as well as the owner’s rating variables and driving record. Another thing to think about when purchasing RV insurance is how often you drive it. Those who only use their RV once a year pay more for insurance than people who use their RV on a regular basis.

There are several methods to save money on RV insurance. Many insurance carriers will give you a discount if you bundle your coverages, join an RV association, get a defensive driving course, have no claims or accidents on your driving record, or own an RV with specified safety features like anti-theft brakes.

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What Coverage Can You Get For Your RV?

The coverage of your renters’ insurance policy is usually the same as that for vehicle insurance, including losses caused by an accident or natural disaster, fire, falling objects, and water damage. It also covers you if you are injured in a collision with someone who doesn’t have insurance.

Basic liability insurance is all that’s required for RV owners in most cases, as well as personal injury protection in a no-fault state. If you lease or finance your RV, it’s probable that your lender will want you to obtain a comprehensive coverage policy with comprehensive insurance, collision insurance, and medical payments coverage included.

Add-ons for RV insurance are comparable to those for car insurance. You have the option of obtaining endorsements to your RV Insurance coverage, which is similar to auto insurance. Towing, roadside assistance, and personal items coverage are some of the most popular add-ons, they will reimburse you for the contents of your RV if it is damaged or stolen.

If you want to drive your RV into Mexico, you’ll need a specific form of coverage. The majority of RV insurance plans exclude coverage in Mexico, but if you enter Canada, your basic policy will still apply.

The insurance requirements for RVs differ depending on if you’re a part-time or full-time mobile home resident. Because their RV has become their permanent home, full-time RVers require more coverage, as they would if their house was destroyed. RV insurance for short-term trips is called part-time RV insurance. It covers the RV’s damage, liabilities, and accidents incurred while on the road. RV insurance is more comprehensive, covering the RV for a longer duration. It’s similar to home insurance because an RV is your second home. The insurance company usually determines the class based on how much you live in it every year. Full-time usage is defined as more than 150 days. 

Important Notes About RV Insurance

You need some form of insurance if you operate an RV. Towing vehicles, including utility trailers, are not covered. The exemption is towable trailers. RV insurance covers many of the same things as traditional vehicle insurance, although it isn’t sufficient on its own to protect your RV. Take some time to research, compare providers, and obtain several quotes in order to choose the best RV insurance coverage for you. Keep in mind that if you bundle your RV insurance with another policy, such as home or auto insurance, you may receive a discount.