When the summer heat hits, it’s time for outdoor enthusiasts to hit the campgrounds. RVs are luxury outdoor living quarters at its finest. Once you purchase your summer fun on wheels, you’ll need to know how to get it insured. Find out how to get insurance in 5 easy steps.
Know your recreational vehicle! Year, make, and model, are details about your RV the insurance company needs to know to give you an accurate quote. It may seem obvious, but frequently people do not know the model of their RV especially if they purchased it years ago. Have the VIN number ready along with your personal information such as name, birth date, address, social security number, and driver's license number.
Decide on Your Coverage
RV insurance can vary quite a bit from vehicle to vehicle. It is state law to maintain liability insurance on a motor home while you are operating the vehicle. Insurance on a towable RV may be optional depending if your vehicle is financed or not. Physical damage coverage is usually determined by the value of the RV. It comes down to your own personal comfort level. Determine if the savings on your insurance is worth more than the risk of losing the value of the RV. Check to see if your insurance carrier offers specialized coverage for your RV.
Select an Insurance Provider
Start with your car insurance provider. A multi-policy discount often applies to a RV policy if you have your auto insurance with the same company. If the rate is higher than you anticipated, call around to different carriers to see if they are in the ballpark. Some insurance companies, such as Progressive, specialize in recreational insurance.
Provide Documentation for Discounts
Insurance companies want to verify that you qualify for certain discounts so you will have to provide proof. Common RV discounts that require proof include being a proof of prior insurance, homeownership, and primary medical insurance so you qualify for coordinated medical. If you received these discounts and did not provide proof you will likely see a rate increase. It is much easier to have your proof ready at the time you start the policy so you do not forget about it later.
Make Down Payment & Sign
Whenever you start a new insurance policy, it is typical to make an initial payment right away. Making your payment and signing on the dotted line activates your policy so you know you are covered. Some companies may offer online signatures, payment, and activation. Check for extra discounts within the payment plan you select. Several companies give a paid in full discount or a discount for signing up for automatic withdraw.
RVs put a different spin on vacationing. It’s mobility at its best. Be prepared when shopping for RV insurance. Know what information to gather and what coverage you need. Select a provider, provide documentation to receive your discounts, make your down payment and you’ll be on your way to pure American freedom.
