Is your vehicle still covered if you take it off-road?
Ever need to take a road that has a “no regular maintenance” sign on it? Whether it’s a road you take to get to your cottage in the winter or that woodsy path you take en route to your secret beach spot in the summer, is your vehicle covered?
Generally, insurers scoff at off-roading insurance claims. And that’s worrisome because the likelihood of filing a claim increases when you travel away from traditional roads. The probability of you encountering an accident, bodily injury or any other typical claims-worthy circumstance increases as well.
Read your fine print, first!
Very few insurance policies cover you in the event that something goes awry while you are off-roading. Once you leave the regular road, you are essentially driving uninsured and your claims have a high chance of being denied.
In very rare instances, you may be covered at a limited scope for no extra cost, but it’s important to know this beforehand. Read the fine print on your policy or talk to your insurance provider.
Find an insurer that offers specialized protection
Since your regular, every-day policy likely shuns your sense of adventure, it’s best to find an insurer that supports you. Shopping around for additional, specialized coverage for your vehicle is a practical idea, especially if you know that you take it off-roading more than the average driver.
What to consider when you insure for off-road
There are a few potential scenarios that you should think about:
Collision protection will cover you in case you collide with any trees, rocks or debris.
Bodily injury protection will safeguard you and your passengers in the event that you hit any of those aforementioned rocks or debris. *knocks on wood*
Finally, consider property damage protection, just in case that mudslide takes you into someone’s fence or garage.
Should your vehicle be off-roading anyway?
Please, please, don’t expect cheap rates if you intend to take that little two-door sports car off-roading.
A sturdy SUV, truck, or jeep type vehicle ––those ones that are supposed to be perfect for the rugged outdoors–– will be cheaper to insure than the Viper. The harder the car-body the better; they demonstrate less risk to your insurer.
If it’s a viable option for you, think about getting a specific vehicle for off-roading. With a special outdoors vehicle in your back pocket, you can take it off-road with a certain peace of mind, and possibly a cheaper insurance rate. Plus, you won’t worry about banging it up as much as your day-to-day vehicle.
Bundling
Since insurers like when you take out more policies with them, look at your bundling options. Providers can offer you discounts when you add more cars to one policy, or when you combine your home and auto insurance with the same company.
Make sure to ask your broker about these discount opportunities. Some providers award a 10% discount on auto and a 15% discount on property when you bundle with them.
Summary
Off-roading is all about fun and getting to your next adventure destination, one that might even be in your backyard. Ask your broker if they cover you for off-roading, if they offer multiple-car discounts, and if your vehicle qualifies.
Moreover, if you’re looking to insure your ATV or dirtbike, HUB Insurance Hunter’s providers offer specialty coverage and seasonal insurance policies for legitimate off-road products as well.
Before you go forth into the woods, know your policy. And as always, be safe and have fun!