How To Properly Insure Your RV If You Are A California Resident |
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Eric D. Kyle
August 21, 2013
An RV or recreation vehicle gives you a place to live and freedom to explore. When deciding to buy a new or used rv one of the biggest concerns most consumers will have is the challenge of finding affordable, yet comprehensive insurance for their prized possession. With recreational vehicles now topping out well over $100,000 in value, choosing the cheapest policy is not always the best course of action and consumers should consider not only the price, but the coverage included.
Unlike basic auto insurance, there are some additional things to consider when finding coverage for your RV. Make sure that the furnishings, appliances and fixtures inside the RV are covered in case of theft and damage in addition to its regular coverage. If the RV is considered to be your primary residence, you will need home owner's type liability insurance to receive emergency living expenses if needed in the future. Recognizing the need to stay on top of liability insurance, California implemented a new tracking system in 2006, the DMV can electronically monitor insurance coverage and can take appropriate actions by suspending a motorist's uninsured RV as required by California law. In addition, court personnel and law enforcement also have electronic access to insurance status on DMV records.
Therefore, RV owners must apply the minimum amount of liability insurance on their mobile units to prevent suspension. Comprehensive or collision insurance does not meet vehicle financial responsibility requirements. In order to compensate individuals in case of a collision, liability insurance needs to be purchased by the policyholder to compensate a person other than themselves for personal injury or property damage:
$15,000 for injury/death to an individual.
$30,000 for injury/death to several individuals.
$5,000 for property damage.
Types of Financial Responsibility
Aside from purchasing a motor vehicle liability insurance policy, RV owners as defined in California Government Code must provide evidence that the vehicle is owned or leased by a public entity
Because all privately owned vehicles must be properly insured in California, having proof of insurance in your RV at all times will ensure that you are not held liable if law enforcement needs to see this information. Proof of insurance is also required when a vehicle is involved in a traffic accident and for vehicle registration renewal.
As an added tip, check your coverage to find loopholes. Look to see if your insurance coverage has any time restrictions on RV parking and traveling. Even if you have found a discount policy, there is no need in buying it if it doesn't cover everything. Ensure that the limitations are sufficient and that all your property is included. Also, check the underwriting and claims procedure. If you are insuring your RV with an online company, find out their procedure for making a claim if anything should happen.