More than 11 million people own RVs at this point. That figure has been growing over the last decade and is expected to continue doing so in the coming years. RV owners span age groups ranging from young families just starting out to retirees looking to travel the continent. As luck would have it, there are numerous types of RVs on the market designed to meet the needs and expectations of virtually anyone interested in camping and traveling.
A Brief Glimpse at Important Factors to Consider When Purchasing an RV
Of course, people who are interested in buying an RV need to consider certain factors beforehand. For one, they must decide whether they want to drive their camper while pulling a passenger vehicle behind it. In that case, a motorhome would be in order.
If you’re among the many people who’d rather drive their passenger vehicles and tow their RVs, you should choose a pull-behind camper. With that type of camper, it’s important to consider how many people will be coming along for the trip so everyone will have space to sleep. Understanding how much tow weight the vehicle to be pulling the RV can handle is essential as well. Additionally, insuring your RV is yet another factor to keep in mind.
What Are the Requirements for RV Insurance?
First of all, almost every state requires RV owners to purchase some type of insurance coverage. The two exceptions would be Virginia and New Hampshire. Having said that, different rules apply to different types of RVs. For motorhomes, or those that move under their own power rather than being towed by another vehicle, specific RV insurance is required. In the case of pull-behind models, your auto insurance will cover your camper. However, you can purchase additional coverage if you’d like.
What Do RV Policies Cover?
RV coverage works in much the same way as vehicle coverage. Though policies vary a bit, general options include liability, comprehensive, and collision. Liability coverage pays for the injuries and damage other people and their property sustain if you’re at fault for an accident. Collision coverage applies to your injuries and property damage if you’re in an accident. Comprehensive coverage takes care of damage caused by acts of nature, fire, and vandalism. If you primarily live in your RV rather than using it recreationally, you may need to purchase additional policies for more well-rounded coverage.
Additional policies can also be purchased for RVs. You can add roadside assistance, glass replacement, coverage for damaged accessories (such as satellite dishes and awnings), and protection against uninsured and underinsured motorists. Policies are likewise available to cover any damage you might inadvertently cause while driving, towing, or parking your RV at a campground. Extra loss replacement policies are offered as well.
Getting the Right Coverage for Your RV
While standard auto insurance covers towable RVs, specific coverage is required for motorhomes. Having said that, purchasing additional coverage for campers is advised because auto insurance may not cover all the possible problems that could arise with an RV. If you’re using your RV as a primary residence rather than a recreational vehicle, it’s best to modify your coverage accordingly. Having the right type of coverage to fit your situation will help ensure you’re safeguarded against all eventualities. Don’t hesitate to speak with an insurance provider to learn more about the best type of coverage for your circumstances.
