As co-owner of the largest RV insurance agency in the nation, I’ve slogged through my share of claims data and anecdotal claims evidence. So, what can you do to avoid becoming statistical data for insurance companies? For starters, you can take a closer look at what RV claims adjusters tell me are their most common claims events.

RV Hazard #1
We’ll begin with what I believe to be the most dangerous—yet hidden—danger that lurks behind that innocuous-looking refrigerator in your RV. Did you know that fires behind refrigerators account for countless claims each year? One of our insurance companies recently reported that they dealt with more than 450 cases of this type of claim last year.

Have propane lines checked, or do it yourself.

Avoid this life-threatening hazard by having all your propane lines checked by an authorized RV repair establishment each year. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, then you can perform this simple check on your own with an LP gas detector kit. Simply apply the solution to the fittings and you’ll know if you have a leak.

RV Hazard #2
Have you ever felt like ducking as you approach a low bridge? It should come as no surprise to you that another common type of claim is collision with overhangs, including tree branches and service station overhangs. Do you know the height of your RV to the highest point, which includes the air conditioning unit? You should. Additionally, many times RVers tend to back up their units without an additional pair of eyes to guide them.

Measure your RV and know its height.

I have a suggestion: Measure your RV or peruse the product specifications included with your RV to establish the total height of the RV. Next, write this number on a card or sticky note and post it somewhere within reach. Whenever you back up, have another pair of eyes guiding you so you don’t collide with a low-hanging branch.

RV Hazard #3
Did you remember to retract the stuff? Let’s talk about retractable steps, TV antennas, awnings and the like. Most of our time spent on the road is in a typical car, and every day we hop in and drive away without thinking. Your RV is a complex piece of machinery, so treat it as such.

Do a walk-around before turning the key.

Most private pilots will do a final trip around the airplane just before getting in and closing the door. I recommend that you take one final lap around your RV or trailer before leaving the campsite. Furthermore, most pilots use a checklist to ensure they don’t miss a thing. Be an excellent RV pilot and use a checklist; it will help you remember things you could forget, especially when you’re in a hurry.

Follow these guidelines and you can decrease the chances that you’ll become a statistic for your RV insurance company, and you’ll avoid forking over money for your deductible. Please feel free to contact RV America Insurance with any questions you have regarding your RV insurance policy.

Paul Bender (1-800-400-0186) is the founder and Co-owner of rv-insurance-coverage.com/ RV America Insurance Marketing, Inc. in Simi Valley, CA. RV America Insurance is the largest rv-insurance-coverage.com/ RV insurance agency in the nation, and has long been recognized as the leading provider of specialty RV insurance through RV dealerships nationwide. RV buyers rely on RV America’s licensed agents to provide outstanding value and superior knowledge of RVs and RV specific insurance coverage.