Does raising the height of a travel trailer affect its insurance policy? That’s the question a reader named Irv posted as a comment last summer. It’s taken us this long (sorry) to ask RV travel.com readers if any of them have come across this situation.
Here’s Irv’s question:
When I applied for insurance on my trailer I was asked if the height had been increased by raising it higher above the axles to provide more ground clearance (I assume because that would make the trailer somewhat more prone to tipping over with the higher center of gravity).
I see discussions on forums talking about how easy it is to raise a trailer, but never cautions about checking your insurance coverage first.
If you are familiar with this situation, would you please leave a comment? You may help save another RVer from financial disaster if he or she is in a serious accident.
##RVT931
Can’t believe an insurer asked that, unless something else prompted them.
But when you hit a overpass, expect problems with the insurance ha ha ha???
I would tend to want to stay within manuf.’s specs. for insurance puposes. So the question is, how many manufacturers have a lift option. I know of one for certain, Lance Travel Trailers where you can order your TT with a 2 5/8″ lift.
This is really a “gray area”. Look at all the “lifted” pickup trucks on the road. The center of gravity has certainly been changed on them. I think there are more roll-overs in the Yuma, AZ. area than anywhere we have been. Never heard of a claim denial. And I’m sure the owners never asked about the coverage!
Back tire on my jayco 5th wheel rubbed dealer called them they told them it was adjustable
The easiest answer: read the policy! Reject it if it has clauses you do not like. You may also assume that if you notified the company about changes made To the vehicle and it still issues the policy without limitations you are covered. But this assumption may not always be valid in the face of the policy terms, so, again, READ THE POLICY!
Anytime you change the configuration of the Unit from the Factory Specs, you have essentially damaged the RV. The RV was designed a certain way to operate under certain conditions, put forth by the RVIA and NHTSA and others.
You might be able to get away with it, until you have an accident or Mishap! Your insurance company has the right to refuse a claim, based on you changing the configuration!
So, it is probably wise to just leave it alone and don’t modify anything!
And remember also, “IF YOU DON’T WANT TO KNOW THE ANSWER, DON’T ASK THE QUESTION”!
To a point, I agree but disagree…How many have undersized axles for the weight they carry? How many have undersized brakes? What about an inferior suspension system? Under-rated tires? a Failing Pin Box?…
Just confirm that what you are doing is right and legal. Employ an Engineer for documentation if it is really that big a structural change.
ALL Manufacturers are going to balk at ANYTHING you do even though they know you have to do it to make the rig right (since the Manufacturer fails in sooooo many ways).
If you added a BETTER suspension system and it’s rated for the load, just confirm your new heights and trudge forward. Be sure you don’t hit anything. Pay attention of what’s ahead and plan your routes.
If you are that concerned, read your policy and/or call the Insurance company. Or better yet, send them an email so you have a documented trail.