ATV Insurance: What To Look For In An ATV Insurance Policy
ATV insurance is essential for the All Terrain Vehicle enthusiast.
Are you a person that dreams of fields of pristine snow, untouched and sparkling like diamonds in the frosty sunshine? Can you close your eyes and see trails through forests of pine trees, all laden with freshly fallen snow?
Your ATV may be your family hobby. Do you hit the trails with your wife or your kids?
You may be a speed enthusiast. Running your machine flat out on a newly mowed hayfield or a two-track backwoods road might be your thing.
Your ATV may be a workhorse. It may haul your ice fishing shanty out onto the lake. It may haul a trailer loaded with hay bales to feed your cattle. It may haul you out to your hunting camp and back home again.
No matter what your motivation is for owning and operating an ATV, you will need ATV insurance. But all ATV insurance policies are not the same.
Here are some features and coverages you should look for when shopping for ATV insurance:
• Year-round coverages - Most people run their machines in summer year-round. Some insurance companies require a “lay-up period,” in which you cannot use your ATV without having no coverage.
• Safety apparel coverage - look for coverage for your helmets, goggles, gloves and boots. That stuff is protecting you and keeping you from scrapes and injuries. Make sure it’s covered.
• Towed trailer coverage - if you hook up to a trailer or sleigh, you’ll need coverage.
• After-market parts and accessories - some policies don’t cover aftermarket parts. Make sure yours does.
• Transport trailer coverage - If you’re hauling your ATV on a trailer behind your vehicle, the trailer needs coverage. Instead of buying a separate policy for the trailer, put the coverage on this policy as a rider and save money.
• Collision Coverage and Other than Collision (OTC) Coverage - this coverage takes care of your machine if you run into something. OTC covers things like theft and fire.
• Increased limits on Liability - Carry at least the same liability limits on the ATV policy as you have on your auto policy.
• Medical Payments - this is usually “good neighbor” insurance for injuries to others.
• Broad Eligibility - some insurance companies exclude certain models of ATVs, especially high-performance models.
ATV insurers also offer a variety of discounts, such as:
• Multi-Unit
• Multi-Policy
• Safety Course
• Prior Insurance
• Renewal discount for maintaining continuous coverage
You will also find a wide choice of deductibles and payment plans available. Choosing higher deductibles will lower your premiums. Flexible payment plans will help you manage your budget.
By using these strategies, you’ll have the best chance at having fun riding in the dirt!
ATV insurance is essential for the All Terrain Vehicle enthusiast.