When you’re driving across long distances and living in your vehicle for weeks or months at a time, inevitably there is the chance that something could happen. Due to the combination of auto-related risks and residence-related considerations, you need to be careful and prepared when it comes to RV travel.
When traveling in an RV, there are a few insurance claims that are more common than others. Here is what to look out for and prepare for.
Tire Blowouts
Tires usually blow out as a result of an overloaded RV, improper inflation or excessively worn tread. Check your tire pressure monthly, and before starting any trip. Check the air pressure when the tires are cold.
Help prevent ozone and UV damage by washing your tires with mild soap and water and scrubbing them with a soft brush and keep tires covered when your RV is off the road. Know the weight of your RV (when loaded) and make sure your tires are rated appropriately. Tires should be replaced every five to seven years regardless of mileage or outward appearance.
Refrigerator Fires & Propane Leaks
Many claims each year are due to refrigerator fires caused by malfunctions in the fridge’s cooling system. A rig can burn up in minutes from these malfunctions. Familiarize yourself with the make/model of your fridge and always be on the lookout for recalls. Make sure your oven or stove burners are completely off when not in use and the engine and any propane appliances are turned off before refueling.
Be certain that older propane tanks have an overfill protection device. Check exhaust and intake vents for any blockages. Install a propane gas detector and don’t drive with your refrigerator running on the propane setting.
Hitting Gas Station Overhangs & Bridges
Many claims are the result of forgetting an RV’s height. Getting lodged under a gas station overhang, bridge or other overhead obstruction is a serious issue. Avoid this by creating a constant reminder, posting a sticky note with your RV’s height on your dashboard, taking into account any antennas or other rooftop attachments.
Forgetting to Retract Steps & Awnings
It’s easy to forget minor things when you’re eager to move on to your next destination or are finishing up your vacation. So it’s no surprise that many claims are the result of forgetting to retract steps or awnings, or otherwise ensuring that your RV is completely ready to get back on the road.
Before starting your engine check that awnings, jacks, and steps are fully retracted and ensure that sewer, water, and power are disconnected. Walk around your recreational vehicle to check for low-hanging branches, curbs, signs, and other obstructions. Be certain to close and latch bay doors.
Theft & Vandalism
While RVs are in storage or on dealer lots theft and vandalism are very common. RVs themselves aren’t stolen that often, but criminals do break into them and steal TVs and other contents.
Obviously, the farther away from high crime areas you can store the RV, the better; and the more security there is at the storage facility or storage lot, the better. It is also helpful to personally check on the RV often. Certainly, audible alarms and security systems may help.
When you plan your next trip, make sure to also account for potential mid-journey pitfalls. You can begin protecting your RV by first getting an RV Insurance quote, tailored to your vehicle and your needs. With this protection, you can ensure that your problems can quickly be solved and you can get back on the road.
About Transparity Insurance Services
Transparity Insurance Services was founded for the purpose of helping clients to ensure their property and assets with no hassle. We are committed to providing a simple, easy, efficient, and positive experience to all of our clients, and prioritize open and transparent communication with our clients. Through our excellent customer service and technology, we can help you to find the right insurance program at a competitive price. Contact us today at (855) 889-2037 to learn more about what we can do for you.