When you’re behind the wheel of an RV, you’re not just driving a vehicle—you’re moving a small home on wheels. That’s why understanding how at-fault insurance laws work is essential, especially if you travel across multiple states. In at-fault states (also called tort states), the driver who causes an accident is financially responsible for the resulting damages. This includes bodily injury, property damage, and other associated costs.
If you’re found at fault in a collision, your RV insurance policy—or in some cases, you personally—will need to cover the other party’s expenses, up to your coverage limits.
Minimum RV Insurance Requirements in At-Fault States
Most at-fault states require drivers to carry liability insurance with minimum limits, often:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
While these limits may satisfy state laws, they don’t always reflect the true cost of an RV-related accident. RVs tend to be larger, more valuable, and potentially more damaging in a collision than standard vehicles. If your RV hits a car, structure, or causes injury, costs can quickly surpass minimum coverage limits.
That’s why we recommend RV owners consider higher limits like 50/100/50 or even 100/300/100, depending on your personal assets, vehicle value, and travel habits.
How Fault is Determined
In at-fault states, compensation hinges on negligence—or which driver failed to act reasonably, resulting in harm. Fault can be split between drivers (e.g., 70% you, 30% the other driver), which then affects how compensation is awarded.
It’s also important to avoid admitting fault or assigning blame at the scene. Stay calm, exchange information, document the accident, and contact your insurance provider. Admitting guilt prematurely may hurt your ability to defend against further claims.
At-Fault vs. No-Fault States: What’s the Difference?
- In at-fault states: The at-fault driver’s insurance pays for damages.
- In no-fault states: Each driver typically turns to their own insurance for medical costs, regardless of who caused the crash.
RV travelers should know the laws in each state they pass through, as your rights and responsibilities may change with each border you cross.
What Happens to Your Insurance After an At-Fault Accident?
Even if your RV insurance covers the cost of a claim, your premiums may go up after an at-fault accident. To keep your policy affordable, it’s wise to shop around periodically or work with an insurance provider—like Happy Camper Insurance—that specializes in RVs, boats, and powersport vehicles.
Protecting Yourself and Your RV on the Road
In many at-fault states, drivers can also file personal injury lawsuits if they’ve sustained significant losses. If you’re the at-fault party, this can become a serious financial risk—especially if your coverage is too low. This is why carrying higher liability limits or adding umbrella coverage is often a smart move for RV owners.
Final Thoughts on At Fault States from Happy Camper Insurance
Understanding how at-fault insurance laws apply to RV drivers isn’t just a legal technicality—it’s part of being a responsible and well-prepared traveler. Whether you’re cruising full-time or weekend camping, having the right protection means you can enjoy the journey without worrying about the “what-ifs.”
At Happy Camper Insurance, we specialize in protecting your RV, boat, and powersport vehicles with coverage designed for the road ahead. Let us help you review your current policy or explore better options—because peace of mind is the best travel companion.
Contact us today to learn more about RV insurance in at-fault states.
