Tips Before Starting a New RV Season
Now that the winter is over, the time is drawing near for vacation. Many Americans utilize their recreational vehicles (RVs) during the summer months. You can often travel many different places on this set of wheels.
During the winter, you may have stayed closer to home. If you didn’t use your RV over the winter, you probably stored the vehicle in a safe place like a garage. Both winter storage and regular usage pose different risks to your RV. Therefore, when you take your RV out of storage, your risk levels change.
Preparing an RV for the Summer
Long periods of disuse might cause wear and tear, and small damages to the RV. Make sure you prepare your RV before setting out.
Check your RV Insurance Coverage
RV insurance often allows owners to manipulate coverage when they store the vehicle. Storage insurance covers risks associated with storing the vehicle, while reducing coverage levels for on-road risks. This is often a valuable cost-saving mechanism for RV owners.
Conversely, on-road coverage usually includes many items similar to standard auto insurance. These are things like collision and liability coverage. It also will usually cover special risks associated with RVs, like damages to living areas or perils caused by appliances. Make sure you re-activate full RV coverage before you hit the road. Don’t attempt to travel while the RV only has storage coverage.
If you plan to travel abroad, keep in mind that RV insurance may become void in certain countries. Talk to your insurance provider if you will take the RV out of the US. He or she can often offer you the correct coverage options.
Safety Checks When Preparing Your RV
As you prepare for a new season on the road, take the time to inspect different elements of the RV. Doing so can drastically improve your safety risks.
- Check the RV’s registration. Because you don’t operate this vehicle every day, it may be easy to let the registration expire. Have the RV inspected by a licensed state inspector to check for roadworthiness.
- Have specialized mechanics perform regular maintenance on the RV’s major systems. Make sure they inspect the vehicle and its interior systems. Repair critical systems.
- Sanitize the RV. A season in storage is a prime time for corrosion, dirt, mold and insect infestation. Clean the vehicle thoroughly before setting out.
- Test the RV’s interior utilities. Systems like gas cooking ranges, toilets, media systems and showers all pose safety risks if they don’t operate properly.
- Re-stock your vital supplies. These may include first-aid items, generators, gas and water tanks, and attachments that help make the vehicle stationary.
Furthermore, before you set off, never forget to check your home. Shut down the home’s vital systems, and arm alarm systems. Make sure the place you leave is as secure as the RV you will travel in.
