RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
INSURANCE BASICS 

Recreational Vehicle (RV) insurance is essential for protecting your investments and ensuring safety while enjoying activities involving RVs, trailers, motorcycles, ATVs, and e-bikes. Each type of vehicle may have unique coverage requirements, but the core components of insurance policies often overlap. Here is an overview of key coverage options and considerations:

 

1. BODILY INJURY LIABILITY

This coverage helps pay for injuries to other people if you’re at fault in an accident. For example, if your RV, motorcycle, or ATV collides with another person or vehicle, bodily injury liability can cover their medical bills, lost wages, or legal costs. However, it doesn’t cover your own injuries.

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2. MEDICAL PAYMENTS OR PERSONAL INJURY PROTECTION (PIP)

Medical Payments (MedPay) or PIP covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault. PIP is broader than MedPay in that it may also cover lost wages and rehabilitation costs. For recreational vehicles, this is crucial since accidents involving motorcycles, ATVs, or e-bikes can result in significant injuries.

 

3. PROPERTY DAMAGE LIABILITY

This coverage pays for damage you cause to someone else’s property, such as their vehicle, home, or other structures. For instance, if you accidentally hit a parked car with your RV or damage a fence with your ATV, property damage liability can handle the repair costs.

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4. COLLISION COVERAGE

Collision coverage pays for damage to your own vehicle resulting from an accident, regardless of fault. Whether you collide with another vehicle, a tree, or a stationary object, collision coverage ensures your recreational vehicle is repaired or replaced. This is particularly important for high-value RVs or custom motorcycles.

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5. COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE

Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision-related damages to your vehicle. This includes theft, vandalism, fire, flooding, hail, falling objects, or damage caused by animals. Comprehensive coverage is highly recommended for all recreational vehicles due to the variety of risks they face when not in use.

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5. UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE

If you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance, this coverage steps in. Uninsured motorist coverage helps pay for your medical expenses or damages if the at-fault party has no insurance, while underinsured motorist coverage applies when their policy limits are insufficient to cover your costs.

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7. EXCLUSIONS

Recreational vehicle insurance policies often have exclusions to be aware of, including:

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• Wear and Tear: Damage due to regular use or aging is typically not covered.

• Unauthorized Drivers: If someone not listed on your policy causes an accident, coverage may be denied.

• Off-Road Use: Some policies exclude damage incurred while using ATVs, motorcycles, or e-bikes off-road unless specifically included.

• Personal Belongings: Items inside your RV, trailer, or vehicle (e.g., laptops, camping gear) may not be covered unless you have additional personal property coverage.

• Business Use: If you use your recreational vehicle for commercial purposes, such as renting it out or conducting business, standard coverage may not apply.