If you own an RV, you're responsible for driving it safely on the road. However, accidents can happen no matter how careful you are. Luckily, RV liability insurance is your protection if you cause an accident and are required to pay for injury treatments and other damages. Liability insurance is required for RVs in nearly every state.
A local independent insurance agent can help you find the right RV liability insurance. They'll ensure you meet your state's coverage requirements and have enough protection under your regular RV insurance as well. But first, here's a guide to RV liability insurance, what it covers, and why it's important.
What Is RV Liability Insurance?
Similar to the liability coverage included in standard auto insurance policies, RV liability insurance is designed to cover expenses related to third-party bodily injuries and personal property damage. If you're at fault for an accident, you'll be responsible for covering a portion or all of the other party's damages.
If you have RV liability insurance, your coverage can reimburse you for these costs, including repairs or replacements to the other party's property and vehicle, as well as medical expenses if they require treatment.
What Does RV Liability Insurance Cover?
RV liability insurance includes coverage in two major forms: property damage liability and bodily injury liability. These coverages are broken down as follows:
- Property damage liability: If you cause an accident that results in damage or destruction to another vehicle or other property, like a mailbox or a fence, your RV liability insurance can cover the costs of repairing or replacing it.
- Bodily injury liability: If the other driver or their passengers are injured after an accident you were at fault for, your RV liability insurance can pay for emergency transport and the costs of emergency medical care and follow-up care.
RV liability insurance can also help reimburse you for these costs:
- Lawsuits arising from an accident: If the driver files a lawsuit against you, RV liability insurance can cover the legal expenses, including attorney, court, and settlement fees.
- Liability claims from visitors: If you are a full-time motorhome dweller and use your motorhome as both your vehicle and your living space, and you have a full-timer RV policy, your RV liability insurance should cover liability claims similar to those you may encounter in a residential home.
You'll need to select an RV liability insurance policy that has coverage limits that satisfy your state's minimum requirements, where applicable. Also, consider how much coverage is necessary to adequately protect your personal assets when designing your policy. An independent insurance agent can help you secure the appropriate amount of coverage.
Do You Need RV Liability Insurance for Older RVs?
You're likely required to have RV liability insurance for your vehicle regardless of its age. Most states require liability coverage on all vehicles that operate on public roadways, so older RVs are no exception. No matter how old your RV is, you can learn more about RV coverage types to understand your insurance needs better.
Consider Vacation Liability Insurance for Your RV
You might need special coverage for incidents that occur while your RV is parked. Vacation liability insurance can help reimburse you for incidents like third-party bodily injuries or property damage that happens on your campsite while your RV is stationary. Coverage limits typically range between $10,000 and $500,000. Ask your independent insurance agent if vacation liability coverage is a good idea for you.
Consider Full-Timer Coverage If You Live in Your RV
If you use your RV as your permanent residence, which qualifies as residing in your vehicle for at least six months every year, you may need a special full-timer RV insurance policy. As previously stated, these policies increase your RV liability protection to levels similar to liability coverage that's included in homeowners insurance. This can include coverage for incidents involving guests in or around your RV as well as damage to the campsite caused by you or your RV.
An Independent Insurance Agent Can Help You Get a Quote for RV Liability Insurance
Online RV insurance quotes are a great way to start your coverage search. You can easily compile coverage options this way, but you might still have questions or concerns about your RV insurance.
An independent insurance agent is a great resource at times like these. Your agent can personally answer any of your questions, provide accurate quotes, and produce a policy customized for you. And if the time comes, your agent will be there to help file RV insurance claims for you.
Sources
https://www.progressive.com/answers/rv-liability-coverage/
