What is RV insurance?

A motorhome is part residence and part vehicle, and the coverages in RV insurance policies reflect this dual nature. From burglaries to accidents, a policy can provide Massachusetts motorhome owners with many protections.

RV insurance is specifically tailored to the risks associated with owning and operating a motorhome. Policies often include coverage for the motorhome, personal belongings, and the policyholder.

Who in Massachusetts requires motorhome insurance?

The vast majority of Massachusetts residents who own RVs should have motorhome insurance. State law generally requires certain coverages when driving, and additional protections are widely recommended.

What protections does motorhome insurance offer?

Motorhome insurance offers a broad range of coverage options. Some of these mirror the protections found in auto insurance, while others are more akin to homeowners insurance.

Common motorhome coverages that resemble those in auto policies include:

• Personal Injury Coverage: Typically covers injuries to the RV driver and their passengers.
• Bodily Injury Liability Coverage: Typically covers injuries to passengers in other vehicles, or pedestrians.
• Collision Coverage: Typically covers damage to the RV that’s caused by accidents with other vehicles.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Typically covers damage to the RV that’s caused by other events, such as falling objects, wildlife damage, theft or fire.
• Property Damage Liability Coverage: Typically covers damage to other vehicles or non-vehicle property that’s caused by accidents.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Typically covers accidents with drivers who have inadequate or no auto insurance.

Common coverages that resemble those in homeowners policies include:

• Personal Property Coverage: Typically covers belongings in the RV, such as dishes, electronics, cameras, clothes and souvenirs.
• Emergency Expenditure Coverage: Typically covers immediate meal and lodging expenses when travel plans are disrupted by a covered incident.
• Vacation/Campsite Liability Coverage: Typically covers incidents that cause injuries to others when the RV is parked and set up.
• Full-Timer Coverage: Typically provides more protections for those living full-time in their RV, who don’t maintain a fixed primary residence.

 

What are the different RV policy classifications?

RV policies are frequently categorized into classes, primarily based on the RV’s size and type. Common classes and the RV models they typically insure are:

• Class A is generally for large RVs and redone buses
• Class B is generally for medium RVs, van-style campers and trailers
• Class C is generally for small RVs and fifth-wheels

An insurance agent experienced with RV policies can ensure owners look at the right type of policy for their motorhome, bus, van or trailer.

Can RVers cancel their insurance during the off-season?

Sometimes motorhome owners are tempted to cancel their insurance policy when not using their motorhome for an extended season, such as winter for some in Massachusetts. The goal is to save on premiums, but this usually isn’t the best way to go about doing so.

Canceling a motorhome policy normally leaves the RV with no protection whatsoever. There likely isn’t comprehensive coverage in case the vehicle is damaged while in storage, and there might not be personal property protection if any belongings in the motorhome are stolen. Events like these can take place even when not using an RV.

For this reason, canceling coverage altogether isn’t normally recommended. Instead, an insurance agent who knows these policies well can help owners adjust their coverages for when the RV is and when it isn’t in use.  

How can motorhome owners find RV insurance?

If you’re a Massachusetts resident with an RV, reach out to the independent insurance agents at Flavin & Flavin Insurance. Our team is committed to assisting you in finding an RV insurance policy that offers robust protection for both your motorhome and yourself.