Summer is nearly here, and for many Canadians, that means one thing: it’s time to dust off your recreational vehicles and get ready for adventure. Whether you’re hitting the trails on your ATV, exploring backroads on a dirt bike, or cruising the water on a jet ski, there’s no shortage of excitement to be had. But before you rev your engine: are you covered?
At its core, insurance is about peace of mind. It’s about knowing that if the unexpected happens—whether it’s an accident, theft, or damage—you won’t be left to navigate the fallout alone. Recreational vehicles (RVs) bring a unique set of risks, and that’s why having the right insurance coverage tailored to your needs is so critical. As insurance brokers, we’re here to break it down for you so you can enjoy your summer adventures and leave worry behind.
Why Do You Need Insurance for Recreational Vehicles?
Recreational vehicles like ATVs, dirt bikes, UTVs, and jet skis aren’t just toys—they’re valuable machines that can cause serious damage to property or injury to others if something goes wrong. Many provinces in Canada, including Ontario and Alberta, legally require liability insurance for certain vehicles, even if you’re only using them on private property. Even where coverage isn’t mandatory, it’s a wise investment to protect yourself financially.
Imagine your ATV accidentally damages a farmer’s fence, or a passenger on your UTV is injured during a ride. Without the right coverage, expenses can add up fast; from medical bills to repair costs. Insurance protects you from these financial burdens, allowing you to focus on what matters most—enjoying your time outdoors.
Key Insurance Coverages for Recreational Vehicles
Not all recreational vehicles are created equal, and neither is insurance coverage. Let’s walk through some coverages every recreational vehicle owner should consider.
1. Liability Coverage
This is the foundation of any insurance policy. It provides protection if you’re found legally responsible for an injury to another person or damage to their property while using your recreational vehicle.
For example:
- If you injure someone with your ATV
- If you lose control of your ATV and hit someone else’s parked vehicle.
- If your jet ski accidentally collides with a dock.
Liability coverage ensures these costs don’t come out of your pocket, and it’s often legally required for certain vehicles.
2. Collision and Comprehensive Coverage
Liability covers others, but what about your property? Collision and comprehensive coverage protect your recreational vehicle itself.
- Collision Coverage: This can pay for repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it’s damaged in an accident. For instance, if your dirt bike hits a rock and sustains structural damage, collision coverage steps in.
- Comprehensive Coverage: This can cover non-collision-related risks, such as theft, fire,or vandalism. For example, if your jet ski is stolen from your driveway, comprehensive coverage can help replace it.
3. Accessories and Customization Coverage
Many RV owners put money into customizing their vehicles with accessories like upgraded suspensions, custom paint jobs, or additional safety equipment. Standard insurance doesn’t always cover these modifications. Adding an endorsement for accessories ensures these investments are protected.
Factors That Impact Your Coverage
When building your insurance policy, our team of brokers consider factors such as:
- Where you’ll use your vehicle: Are you sticking to private property, or are you riding on public trails or waterways?
- Type of vehicle: Coverage needs for a dirt bike will differ from those of a jet ski.
- Your driving history: A clean record can help keep your premiums affordable.
- Storage location: How you store your vehicle when it’s not in use can impact coverage requirements, especially for theft.
By providing this information, your broker can customize a policy that suits your specific needs, ensuring you’re fully protected.
Get Ready for a Worry-Free Summer
This summer, let your adventures be fuelled by excitement, not concern. With the proper insurance for your recreational vehicles, you can take on every trail and wave with confidence. At Gifford Carr, we help clients like you find the perfect coverage, whether you’re a weekend enthusiast or a seasoned adventurer.
Still unsure what type of insurance you need? Reconnect with our team today. We’ll guide you through your options, answer your questions, and make sure you’re ready for whatever adventures await.
