If you’re planning to hitch up a trailer and hit the road, towing a trailer can be an incredibly useful way to carry heavy loads, extra gear, or even a camper for those weekend getaways. However, it’s worth knowing where you stand when it comes to insurance. Here’s a quick rundown on what to look out for.
Is Your Trailer Covered Under Standard Car Insurance?
The first thing to check is whether the trailer itself is covered by your car insurance. While many policies allow you to tow a trailer, this doesn’t always mean the trailer and its contents are insured. Typically, standard car insurance policies provide coverage for damage that you might cause to other vehicles or property when towing, but they may not cover damage to the trailer itself or any trailer parts that might be damaged in an accident.
What Kind of Coverage Should You Look For?
If you’re towing frequently, consider adding extra coverage. Some insurers offer an add-on to cover trailers, including specific trailer parts you can get from https://autoandtrailer.com/shop, like the hitch, wheels or lights, as well as any contents inside. This can come in handy if you’re towing valuable equipment or camping gear, or if you’ve invested in trailer upgrades.
Are There Specific Rules When Towing?
Insurance aside, remember that towing a trailer requires following certain road rules, like specific speed limits and weight restrictions. You’ll also need to check that your vehicle is legally allowed to tow the weight of your trailer and that all trailer parts are in top shape to avoid fines or accidents. Plus, having the right lighting and properly secured connections, for instance, is crucial both for safety and compliance with the law.
Checking with Your Insurer
Since policies vary, the best advice is to contact your insurer to clarify exactly what’s covered and what’s not. They can guide you through additional options if your trailer isn’t automatically included in your policy. That way, you can hit the road with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered for every mile (and every trailer load) along the way.
