Many take to the road in an RV thinking of the great vacation memories they are about to make, giving little thought to the possibility of getting into an accident. Being in an accident in an RV can be a lot scarier than being in a sedan or pickup truck. How you respond when you get into a collision can impact your family’s safety and future finances.
How To Handle an RV Collision
Your first order of preparation is to carry comprehensive RV insurance, as this will provide some financial peace of mind as you deal with the damage, trauma and injuries that may occur because of the accident. Once you’ve secured insurance, memorize these tips for handling an RV accident.
1. Check All Passengers
Once your vehicle and RV have come to a complete stop, do a verbal and visual check of all the passengers. If you can’t them, call out their names and check on their status. If everyone is okay, exit the rig or your vehicle and move to the side of the road. If anyone is injured, do not try to move them unless they are in serious danger from a fire, fuel leak, smoke or oncoming vehicles.
2. Call for Help
As soon as everyone has been accounted for, make the call to emergency services. This can be done by dialing 911 or the police. Even if you don’t think the accident is serious, you will want the police on the scene as you try to get back on the road or wait for a tow truck. RVs are a lot larger than other vehicles and getting them moved can be quite a task.
3. Create a Safe Scene
RVs and travel trailers often have propane or other fuel sources that pose a fire hazard. It is possible to safely move the RV to the side of the road, then move the vehicle and put plenty of space between your and the RV while you wait on help. If you can’t move the RV, make sure to turn on your warning lights or set out warning triangles to notify other drivers.
4. Gather Information
Though the police will make a full report, take it upon yourself to document everything you can about the collision. You are also responsible for collecting the vehicle and insurance information from any party involved in the accident. Take pictures of the scene, the surroundings, the people involved and their injuries, and follow up the photos with as much written information you can gather. Call your RV insurance provider before you or anyone else leaves the scene.
How To Use Your RV Insurance
Your agent will let you know what information you need to open a claim. Follow the process of your provider and the advice of your agent to ensure your collision is covered.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.