Common Mistakes Made with Off-Road Vehicle Insurance

ATV/UTV Insurance Considerations

ATV/UTV owners and renters can have an absolute blast (safely) tearing around on a back country adventure. But there are a number of risks inherent to any vehicle operation, especially when you leave the paved roads for those less-traveled trails. Here are some of the insurance-related mindsets to avoid when you ride or rent an ATV/UTV.

1) Not insuring your off-road vehicle.

Accidents happen, even off-road. Ambulances aren't built to go off-road so in the case of a more serious accident, helicopter assistant may be needed. In a situation like this, it would be in your best interest to have liability coverage and Uninsured motorist/Under-Insured motorist protection.

2) Thinking Off-road insurance is expensive.

It may sound daunting from the outside but in reality a liability-only policy can be as little as $100 and average premium is around $350 per year. For the best protection we recommend high limits plus an umbrella policy.

3) Thinking customizations will be covered too.

Off-roaders will often add extra customizations to their vehicle. But for insurance purposes, customizations count as anything that isn't original manufacturer equipment (OME). This would include equipment added by the dealership or a previous owner. If you've invested in customizations we recommend purchasing high limits for additional premium.

4) Assuming road-side assistance provides coverage.

Having road-side assistance coverage does not mean you can get a tow whenever or wherever you need it. Towing coverage does not usually include ATV's or snowmobiles. That being said, if you invest in motorcycle or off-road vehicle insurance policy and add road-side assistance, you'll be able to get fuel delivery, flat tire assistance, and a tow. The one catch is that you must be close to a public road seeing as tow-trucks are not built to go off-road.