A motorhome is exactly what the name implies – a home on wheels. So when selecting motorhome insurance, you should have the same expectations and standards as when choosing home owner’s insurance. Individual states all mandate the minimum amount of coverage you can have on a motorhome, but the minimum (as with other types of insurance) does not ensure that you are fully protected.
Specialty motorhome insurance
Insurance for motorhomes is often less expensive than regular auto insurance but covers instances specific to motorhomes. A standard automobile insurance provider may seem like a logical choice, especially if you already insure an everyday-use vehicle (for example, a truck or SUV) with the company. However, companies that only offer insurance for motorhomes are experienced in dealing with motorhomes and the costs of repairs and damages. Companies that offer insurance for motorhomes price their coverage based on the recreational use of the vehicle rather than on the vehicle’s risk like general auto insurance companies do. Motorhome-specific policies take into account that the vehicle is not used with the same frequency as other vehicles. Motorhome insurance rates vary by the state in which you register, the value of the motorhome and how often you use it. A good place to look for insurance for motorhomes is RV America Insurance (rvainsurance.com).
Personal possessions
Standard auto coverage does not extend to the amount or variety of items some motorhome users keep in their vehicle. Items such as computer equipment, sporting goods (for example, bikes or expensive rock-climbing gear), dishes, and other appliances are unusual items to keep in a vehicle. While homeowner’s insurance may cover the items while the motorhome is parked, there are limitations if the items are taken out of the vehicle.
Motorhome full-timers
For those who live and travel in a motorhome full time, look for a motorhome-specific policy that takes into account the fact that the motorhome is both your mode of transportation and living quarters. The policy should have an emergency expense allowance that helps to cover the cost of a rental car, hotel stay, or airfare if something happens.
Discounts
Some motorhome insurance companies offer a policy discount if the main driver of the motorhome takes a safe driving course or if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes or an anti-theft system. Some insurance companies also offer discounts if the insuree is a member of a motorhome club. Insurance companies have begun offering incentives for those who can go a year without making a claim on the policy. A discount is rewarded for every claim-free year, and after four years, the deductible reaches zero so that you do not pay the deductible on your next claim.
Total Loss Replacement (TLR)
As with most vehicles, motorhomes lose value once they’re sold and driven off the lot. TLR policies provide the policy holder with a comparable new motorhome if the vehicle is totaled in the first five years. If a total loss occurs after those five years, the purchase price of the vehicle is paid. A basic auto policy, however, only pays the actual cash value of the vehicle.
By Virginia Zignego