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Insurance and ORVs   You wouldn't drive on the freeway without insurance for your car or motorcycle, and you shouldn't go off-roading without making sure that you have liability insurance coverage in case of an accident either. If your vehicle of choice for such recreation is a truck, jeep, or SUV, your normal auto insurance applies, even if you're sunk half-way up the tires in mud and muck, but if you drive an ATV, dune buggy, or even a golf court, you need special insurance. Specifically, you should consider purchasing an off-road vehicle (ORV) policy if you regularly use any or all of the following: All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) - sport, standard, and utility models Dirt Bikes Dune Buggies Golf Carts Snowmobiles You also want your ORV policy to be as broad as possible, and not limited to just one type of vehicle. After all, ATVs don't come in just three general types, they also come with different wheel configurations. 3-, 4- and 6-wheel models are common, but some have as many as eight, and the rest of the machines in the list above all need to be insured as well. Trusting that your existing auto or homeowners policy will cover you is not enough protection when you're involved in a dangerous sport. In addition to making sure your insurance carrier will cover the ORVs you own, you need to make sure you ask for the right kind of coverage. A glorified motorcycle policy isn't going to cover the accessories off-roaders typically need, so when you're discussing coverage options, ask about the following options: Coverage for towed trailers and related optional equipment like sleds for use in transporting snowmobiles and ATVs. Coverage for safety apparel, because you should protect the things protecting you. (This generally gives you up to $1,500 to replace any clothing, including helmets and goggles, that are designed to minimize damage to your person in the event of an accident. Coverage that includes replacement / repair of after-market parts Coverage for both collision and accidents other than collision Coverage for transport trailers (generally up to $7,500). Liability coverage with increased limits Begin comparing auto insurance quotes once you have discussed all the options with your agent, being sure to request quotes for year-round coverage rather than only for a specific season. This will allow you to enjoy off-roading throughout the year, whether it's snowmobiling in winter, or taking your ATV up a trail in summer, and still be protected in the event of an accident. While most major insurance carriers offer policies for ORVs, what can be tricky is insuring a truck that was street-legal at one time, but isn't any longer. Most of the big-name insurers will not insure any vehicle that hasn't passed required state inspections, and been legally registered, but many of the trucks off-roaders retain specifically for off-road use cannot pass those inspections. You are will be left with three alternatives: Ask around. Smaller carriers may be willing to write an ORV policy for your non-street-legal Jeep or 4x4 without registration or inspection stickers. You may be able to insure it as an off-road vehicle if you can assure your carrier that the wheels will never, ever touch actual roads. In this case, you will likely be required to show proof of ownership of a tow trailer, and you may have to buy a separate policy for that. You can always do whatever necessary repairs are required in order to meet street-legal qualifications, and save money by insuring and registering the truck as a limited-use or non-use vehicle. Whatever option you choose, and whether your ORV of choice is an ATV or an ancient Jeep, be prepared for the possibility that you may be referred to another company that specializes in this type of insurance. This is normal, and can often save you money. Whether dealing with your own insurance agent or a third party, always make sure that you ask about applicable discounts when requesting your insurance quote, because many of the same rules that apply to conventional insurance, also apply here, like the fact that off-roaders under the age of 25 will pay the highest rates. Off-roading is a great way to experience the outdoors and get your adrenaline pumping. Making certain that you are insured won't diminish the adventure, and it will definitely take some of the risk out of your sport.