Sure, RV accidents can put a damper on your road trip, but they happen. If you find yourself involved in a motorhome accident, don’t worry. These 10 steps will guide you through the process and help you get back on the road in no time.
Once your vehicle is stopped, make sure you and your passengers are okay and able to exit the RV. If someone is injured, do not attempt to move them unless they’re in immediate danger. Otherwise, leave it to the first responders.
After you’ve ensured everyone in your RV is okay, go check on passengers in any other vehicles involved. Render assistance if possible, but the same rules apply here — only move injured passengers if absolutely necessary.
If your rig is still drivable, move your vehicle to the side of the road. Only do this if it is safe to do so. If your vehicle is towing a trailer, it’s best to leave it where it is as you don’t know the condition of your hitch.
If you haven’t already called 911, do so. Even if it’s just a minor motorhome accident, call the police so they can assist you in getting your vehicle safely back on the road or towed.
Turn off the engine and turn on your hazard lights. If you have road flares, use those to let other cars know they need to slow down.
Exchange vehicle, contact, and insurance information with others involved.
Make sure to jot down:
Full name and contact information
Insurance company and policy number
Driver's license and license plate numbers
Type, color, and model of vehicle
Location of accident
Gather thorough documentation of the accident.
Important documentation after an RV accident includes:
Name and badge number of all responding officers
A copy of the accident report
Photos of the damage to vehicles from different angles
Contact information of those involved, including witnesses
The more information the better!
You’ll want to get a hold of your RV insurance agent before leaving the scene of the accident. They’ll guide you through the claims process and make sure you have all the necessary information and documentation before you leave.
The claims process varies depending on a variety of factor, including:
Cause of the motorhome accident
Type of damage to the vehicles
Injuries
Your insurance agent will lead you through the claims process and help determine what you’ll have to pay out of pocket if anything.
Take your RV to a mechanic or service center to identify the damage. Your insurance company may even recommend certain repair shops in your area. The sooner you can verify interior and exterior damage, the sooner you can start your claims coverage.
Even if there doesn’t seem to be any damage from your RV accident at first glance, it’s always best to have it looked at by a professional. If you delay this, it may be too late to get those damages, however minor, covered by insurance.
Like we said, accidents happen. In the event of a motorhome accident, you want RV insurance that keeps you covered. Roamly provides RV insurance for RV owners created by RV owners. So, if you’re in an RV accident, you know you have a plan that’ll get you back to your life on the road in no time!
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