Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) ‘ rising popularity poses some interesting insurance issues, especially since you cannot simply drive your UTV on the streets. Most people use side-by-sides to work on their properties, haul equipment, resources, or people, and generally ensure that their farms and ranches perform well.
However, just as it happened with ATVs back in the day, SXS vehicles became a major point of interest for the ones seeking competition thrills. Entering UTV racing is not news. Carrying your UTV on a trailer to Utah to experience the MOAB is commonplace these days.
Do you need to have UTV insurance for such activities? What should you know about insuring your off-road vehicle? Let’s answer these questions (and more!) today.
Do You Have to Get UTV Insurance?
Many states, plenty of state parks, private landowners, and race organizers require you to have some form of insurance with your UTV. The type of insurance most likely depends on your UTV’s purpose. Do you use the off-road vehicle to work on your farm, hunt, enjoy exciting adventures on unbeaten paths, and more?
According to authorities, rollovers and crashed are among the most common types of off-road vehicular accidents. Instead of paying enormous amounts to fix your vehicle, treat your injuries, pay the other party you collided with, or hire lawyers, it is always best to opt for insurance.
Do Insurance Companies Cover UTVs?
Most insurance companies cover UTVs under the ATV section. You will find proper coverage with the most reputable insurance with off-road vehicles or motorcycles in their portfolio. However, just as you don’t get the first car insurance policy a provider offers, you need to take your time with UTV insurance as well.
We say that because a UTV is nothing like a car or a motorbike. As we said, you have to make it street legal, as most models are not. When you get a side-by-side vehicle for work, hobbies, trailing, or sports, you need to consider other aftermarket parts, accessories, gear, and vehicles you need to enjoy it.
To answer the question, yes, most insurers cover your UTV, but it is your job to check the coverage types and choose what is best for you!
What Are the Most Common Types of Coverages for a UTV?
Basic side-by-side coverage is very similar to car insurance and motorbike coverage. You have some exciting differences, as well, so let’s break things down for you so you can make an educated choice!
1. Property Damage Liability
Suppose you cause an accident while riding your UTV for work, sports, hobbies, or casual nature explorations. In that case, the insurance covers the repairs of another person’s vehicle or property (fence, home, barn, other belongings, etc.).
2. Bodily Damage Liability
First, you need to check with your state laws regarding this type of insurance. However, we recommend you get coverage for bodily damage. If you cause an accident and injure another person, the insurance will pay for their medical bills and legal fees within the limits of your policy. If you lend your UTV to a family member or a neighbor and they cause an accident, chances are the insurance policy will protect you to some extent.
3. Collision Coverage
You may think you would not need such coverage if you use your UTV for farming or hunting, but remember it covers objects you hit as well, not only other vehicles. It also protects you if another vehicle hits you and you roll over. After you pay the deductible, the policy will pay for vehicle repairs.
4. Specialized UTV Coverage Options
Now things get truly exciting for all UTV enthusiasts because specialized coverage is something to go for when you consider tuning your vehicle.
Certain carriers offer specific insurance for UTV owners. It is a well-known fact that even the most competent and competitive side-by-side models allow for different types of upgrades. In other words, getting a Polaris Ranger, for instance, may not be enough. Most users also focus on getting the best Polaris Ranger accessories to improve the vehicle’s safety, comfort, performance, style, and driving capabilities.
Discuss with your insurance agent about the coverage of aftermarket parts and gear. Many carriers include coverage for plows, radios and communication systems, harness systems, helmets, protective apparel, doors, rooftops, and more. In case you are in an accident, and your policy covers such UTV parts and accessories, it will also protect your finances within the limits of your policy.
Other specialized coverage includes:
- The carried contents of your UTV: camping accessories, hunting gear, mobile phone and other tech devices, cargo, supplies, etc.;
- Trailer coverage: as we said, you will most likely use a trailer to transport your UTV from your house/garage to a specific destination. Look for carriers that also cover your trailer;
- OEM coverage: some insurers will create personalized policies for you to ensure that if your UTV needs repairs, you will benefit from the original manufacturer’s parts and equipment. If you paid top dollar for a Can-Am, Polaris, or Kawasaki UTV, you need OEM parts for fixes and maintenance.
- Total loss coverage for new UTVs;
- Disappearing deductibles;
- Trip interruption and roadside assistance.
5. Comprehensive UTV Insurance
Just like with cars, comprehensive insurance covers UTV damages that occurred for other reasons than collision. You can think about theft, vandalism, arson, and weather-related damages.
6. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists
It may be unlikely to meet an uninsured or underinsured motorist on the highway – as you cannot take the UTV on one – but it is better to be safe than sorry. If you get into an accident with an uninsured/underinsured driver, the policy you carry will cover repairs or replacements of your off-road vehicle.
7. Medical Coverage
The UTVs overcame ATVs in popularity and uses because they can carry up to six passengers simultaneously. Now, if you use your UTV for family fun, work, recreation, sightseeing, etc., you must get medical coverage for yourself and your passengers.
What Exclusions Are There to UTV Insurance?
It depends on the state you live in and the carrier you choose. Still, most insurers exclude damages that occurred while driving on highways, streets, public roads, etc., and damages arising during organized racing.
How Much Does UTV Insurance Cost?
UTV insurance – just like ATV policies – usually costs less than car or motorbike policies because of their limited uses and lower speeds. However, it would be best if you got several quotes from different providers. UTV insurance includes the usual suspects: driving history, age, location, the vehicle’s make, model, year, tech specs and features, and more.
Final Thoughts
We are all used to getting insurance for our cars – the more complex, the better. Off-road vehicles are somewhat special in the opportunities they offer and the limitations they impose. Still, it doesn’t mean you have to neglect to insure them to protect the vehicle, yourself, and your passengers.
Do you have your own experiences with insurance policies for off-road vehicles? We would love it if you shared your thoughts with us on this matter!