During the summer months, many people like to head off into the backcountry to drive ATVs and dune buggies.
These toys, while fun, can also injure third parties or damage their property if you crash into them. If that happens, neither your auto insurance nor your homeowner's insurance will cover the damage or injuries. That's why it's so important to secure off-road vehicle insurance to protect your assets in case of an accident.
While insurance companies tend to consider dune buggies a specialized form of insurance, the coverage is quite similar to motorcycle and auto insurance policies, with slight differences to account for the off-road nature of these vehicles.
You can typically buy additional coverage for medical costs as well as possessions and accessories that you may keep in your off-road vehicle.
While all states require that you have insurance for your car, that's usually not the case with dune buggies since they are not typically driven on public roads.
That said, if you want to drive your dune buggy on the road, you will likely be required to make it "street legal" by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and that would include a minimum amount of liability coverage.
ATV and dune buggy insurance is usually affordable, and you'll be glad you have it if you cause an accident that injures another person or damages their property. This is especially true if you are sued over the incident.
While liability coverage is something you should not skip, other coverage options are similar to what you'd have with auto insurance:
Collision coverage — This protects your ATV in the event of a collision with another vehicle or an object. It helps pay for repair or replacement costs, regardless of who was at fault.
Comprehensive coverage — This protects your ATV from unexpected events other than collisions, such as theft, vandalism or damage caused by natural disasters.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage — If you're involved in an accident with someone who doesn't have adequate insurance, this coverage can help pay for your medical expenses, lost wages and other damages resulting from the accident.
There are several factors that determine the rates you will pay for dune buggy or ATV insurance, including:
- Type and value of your vehicle
- How often you use it
- Whether you take it out of state
- Your driving record
Many insurance providers offer discounts for ATV riders who complete approved ATV safety courses, which teach safe and responsible riding practices.
If you own an ATV or dune buggy, call us today.