Four-wheelers make it fun to drive off-road and serve as reliable transportation when doing utility work. No matter the reason for owning an off-roader and whether it is brand new or a little muddy around the tires, you need adequate insurance to protect it. With good insurance, you can forget about any worries on the trail and just enjoy your vehicle.
Many people mistakenly assume that their homeowner’s insurance also covers their ATV or UTV. Sometimes it might be if you only drive on your property, but you need to check with your insurance agent if you are not sure whether it is included in your policy or what the conditions are.
As the name suggests, there are two vehicles that fall under this insurance: ATV-s and UTV-s.
ATV stands for an all-terrain vehicle. These are vehicles that use low-pressure tires, used handlebars for steering control, and have a seat that is straddled by the driver. Typically, ATV-s have three or four wheels and can be used on a variety of terrains.
Four-wheeled ATV-s are commonly known as quad bikes. ATV-s are used while hunting, farming, and driving on off-road terrains.
UTV (or UTL) is the acronym for utility terrain vehicles. They are also known as side-by-side vehicles. UTV-s are designed for off-road use with four or more low-pressure tires. They differ from ATV-s by having a steering wheel instead of handlebars, a tail light, brake light, and two headlights. Frequently, they have room for two or more people to sit side by side.
ATV insurance covers accidents and damage that you cause to other people and property or incur yourself. Such damage may include bodily injury to yourself, a passenger, or another individual, as well as damage to your and others’ property. Additionally, it can assist with legal costs, medical bills, and lost wages. Without insurance, such damages would fully have to be paid out of your own pocket.
Policies between different insurance companies vary, but most include these basic coverages:
Property damage liability – You will be insured when you accidentally damage someone else’s property by driving your ATV or UTV. It may even provide you with a legal defense if the other party files a lawsuit.
Bodily injury liability coverage – It will cover the losses in the event you injure or kill someone when riding an ATV/UTV. The legal defense might also be provided in case another party files a lawsuit.
Collision coverage – TIf you hit another vehicle or object, or if you are hit by another vehicle, collision coverage will cover the cost of repairs. Comprehensive – Any losses caused by theft, fire, flooding, vandalism, and other events not involving a collision will be covered under this coverage.
Uninsured or underinsured motorists – You will be covered for any costs you incur if an uninsured or underinsured motorist hits you while driving your ATV/UTV on a public road or highway.
Medical payments – It will cover any of your or a passenger’s medical costs who were in the vehicle during an accident.
Driving one of these four-wheelers is a thrilling experience. What is less thrilling, is receiving a humongous bill when something goes wrong.
In many states, driving an ATV or UTV in state parks or on state-owned land requires ATV/UTV insurance. How you use the vehicle is irrelevant to whether you need ATV insurance.
Even when operating an ATV or UTV on your own property, you should purchase ATV/UTV insurance. Driving four-wheelers comes with many risks and ATV-s have a high theft rate.
When insuring an ATV or UTV, insurance companies examine a range of factors to decide the cost of the coverage. As a result, you can use these factors to reduce the amount you’re required to pay. Such money-saving factors include:
ATV/UTV insurance is cheaper than you think. It can cost less than $150 annually, which will get you liability limits up to $300K and comprehensive coverage. Pay slightly more, and your limits will be even higher. In general, the price is determined by your age and driving experience, and your vehicle’s make, model, and location.
No need to wait until something happens to realize the importance of insurance – get insured now. Our experts can help you choose the best policy for your needs. It is as simple as sending us an email.
