RV Insurance Done Correctly!RV insurance is one thing, many people leave out of their considerations when buying a motor home or an RV. But, just like home and car insurance, insuring your RV is vital. In a way, it's like both kinds of insurance. An RV is a vehicle, and subject to the liability insurance laws like any other. Since many RVs are built on large truck and bus frames, with a larger potential for damage in a collision, the minimums for coverage are often higher than for an automobile. But an RV is also a home on wheels. The vehicle and it's contents are equally at risk in the case of accident or theft. What do you have INSIDE your RV that should be covered under RV insurance? Plasma TV? Cameras and video equipment? Stereo? DVC/VCR units? Hot tub? All high ticket items that would need to be listed on your RV insurance policy if you want to get them replaced. So, where do you get RV insurance? Many of the major automotive carriers also write policies for RVs. When shopping for RV insurance, look for a company for whom this is a major part of their business, not just a side line. Ask how many RV insurance policies they write each year, and how much of their total portfolio is made up of RV insurance. Also, make sure that your agent is experienced in RV policies. This is a specialty that requires a thorough understanding of the risks that are unique to the RV and motor home market. The first company you should try is the one you are already using for auto and home protection. Ask your agent about what instruments are available. Often you can get a discount on the strength of effect an RV insurance policy will have on your account value. However, don't ignore the experience issues discussed before. In the final analysis, it may be best to cover your RV with a policy from a more experienced company. Most good agents will tell you whether or not their policies are right for your situation. Another place to look is in the specialized firms that write policies primarily or even exclusively for RVs and other travel vehicles. While these are usually underwritten by one of the major companies (perhaps even your own), specialized agents will be able to bring a level of expertise to evaluating your needs that a more generalized agent cannot. Many sites on the Internet will help you find an agent and a company for you RV insurance needs. Some are independent and will provide you with quotes from a multiple carriers based on you make, mode, features and accessories. Are you hooked up with other RV users? Ask them who they use for RV insurance. Get some real life stories of how well or how poorly their companies were able to help them in their hour of need. RV user's groups can be found on the Internet and are a great source of information about all things pertaining to the RV lifestyle. Finally, remember. When shopping for RV insurance, be honest about the value of your vehicle and contents. Undervaluing may seem to save you money now, but when something bad happens, you don't want to be faced with having paid all of those premiums but still not having enough payout to cover repair or replacement costs. |