Insurance coverage for recreational
vehicles (RVs) can be a complicated issue. RVs combine many
aspects of regular traveling vehicles with aspects of a home. There
are several issues that need to be considered when purchasing RV
insurance. First, all conventional car insurance issues must be
covered. Second, it is a good idea to insure items inside the RV
as well. Other issues arise for people who live predominantly in
their RV and do not have a permanent residence anywhere else.
The definition of an RV is somewhat
loose. An RV is traditionally viewed as a motor home, but many travel
trailers, fifth wheels, and tour buses are considered RVs as well.
Since RVs are motor vehicles, they
must be covered for conventional car insurance issues such as liability,
collision, and uninsured or underinsured motorists. It is a legal
requirement to have liability insurance, which covers all damages
and bodily harm that is caused by the insured RV motorist. This
protects people who the RV owner may collide with, and guarantees
that they will receive compensation. Collision insurance covers
any damage done to the RV when a collision occurs. This includes
situations in which the RV collides with an object or an object
collides with the RV. It is a good idea for RV owners to purchase
uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage as well. This type of
coverage protects the RV owner from having to pay for any damages
caused by another vehicle driven by someone who does not have enough
insurance to cover the damages.
RVs usually include appliances;
it is a good idea, though it is not legally required, to insure
these as well. The main difference between RV insurance and standard
car insurance is that RV insurance policies can cover appliances
and personal items in the RV. Plumbing, electrical problems, and
other issues can be covered by RV insurance policies. Other items
in the RV -- like TVs, stereos, or furniture -- can also be insured.
This is similar to homeowner's or renter's insurance.
Usually, people must ask for coverage of internal items because
the law does not require it.
People who live in their RV full time
and do not have a permanent residence have additional options. Many
insurance companies offer full time coverage specifically
designed for people who live in their RV. These types of policies
often provide total vehicle and home insurance for the RV.
It is important for RV owners to purchase
appropriate coverage for their vehicle. Many RV owners foolishly
purchase the bare minimum of coverage, and then have to pay out
of pocket for costly repairs on appliances and other items inside
the RV.
The Good
Sam Club is the largest RV club and and they offer free
online insurance quotes.
Click
here to save $30 on their emergency roadside assistance plans
