Planning an RV trip should include choosing a recreational vehicle (RV) insurance company that offers excellent coverage at reasonable rates. Looking for RV insurance online provides a less complicated route for rate comparisons between insurance companies.
Specialist RV Insurance Companies are Best
Quality RV or fifth wheel insurance is an important asset to have in preparation for any upcoming road trip. Being safe and secure should include a comprehensive safety net for all potential hazards, from medical emergencies to equipment failure.
RVs are classed as vehicles by insurance companies and auto insurers will readily provide coverage for most RVs. Unfortunately, insurance companies that cater primarily to autos, may not offer as comprehensive a package as RV insurers.
Purchasing RV insurance from a company that specializes solely in RV coverage allows for better, more focused and flexible coverage that offers perks auto insurance companies often do not.
Some of these options include:
- Personal belongings coverage/replacement
- RV replacement (for new models 5-years old or less)
- An option to suspend collision coverage when the RV is stored
Securing the Best RV Insurance Rates and Quotes
Keeping RV insurance rates and quotes low requires some planning ahead of time. Knowing what the insurance companies will penalize for and how to avoid these penalties will secure the RV owner a lower insurance rate or quote.
Typically insurers will want to know:
- Where and how the RV will be stored
- How the RV will be used or its primary purpose
- RV ownership history
- Current insurance policies with the company
- Insurance claims history
- Age, marital status and whether you own a home
- Associations or memberships that offer discounts
- Credit score
If the RV is to be used as a residence rather than for recreation, liability rates will be adapted accordingly. An RV stored in an area prone to natural disasters will incur a heftier premium, as will an RV stored outdoors rather then under cover. All of these points should be taken into consideration when looking to purchase RV insurance at lower rates.
Recommended RV Insurance Companies for Online Quotes
There are several reputable, experienced and specialized RV insurance companies that have the capability to offer online quotes. After reviewing several companies, the top four consistently recommended insurers based upon user experiences are:
- Progressive RV Insurance
- Good Sam VIP RV Insurance
- RV America Insurance
- Explorer RV
Progressive RV Insurance offers discounts immediately for no at-fault accidents; being the original owner and for paying premiums in full. Pop-up tent trailers and non-professional bus conversions can also be covered. Good Sam VIP offers insurance for motor homes, fifth wheel and trailer insurance. Membership rates allow for discounts and plans are designed by RV experts especially for the RVer.
RV America Insurance company is a member of the Better Business Bureau's (BBB) reliability program and includes a wide range of coverage for various circumstances. Explorer RV insures motor homes, bus conversions, travel trailers, park trailers, fifth wheels and horse trailers. This company works with leading insurers in 48 states.
No one insurance company is going to have the "perfect package," but working with specialized insurance companies will take RVers one step closer to finding something practical and competitive.
Insurance in each state will vary and the individuality of the state will ultimately decide the current insurance rates. RVs are a hefty investment that merit protection so ensuring adequate insurance before traveling should rate as significantly on the priority list, as packing that first aid kit.
Sources:
Inside Your RV; Insideyourrv.com; (Accessed Apr. 5, 2010)
Go RVing; Gorving.com (Accessed Apr. 5, 2010)
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Elizabeth Batt - Elizabeth Batt is a former large animal nurse, certified NREMT, lover of equines and conservationist.
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