Theft protection for your motorhome includes preventive measures as well as certain insurance policies. Prevention ensures a relaxed trip.
Theft protection: Protect your motorhome in different ways
In most cases, it is advisable to use a combination of different measures to ensure optimal protection. The right choice depends on your specific needs and the value of your motorhome. In addition to mechanical and/or electronic security, measures such as video surveillance devices can also provide protection.
- Mechanical security devices include steering wheel locks, wheel clamps, gearshift locks and pedal locks. While wheel clamps are attached to the outside of the vehicle, all other measures with security devices on the inside prevent theft. Wheel clamps block one or more wheels to prevent the vehicle from driving away.
- In contrast, steering wheel locks block the steering wheel and thus prevent the vehicle from being controlled.Pedal locks lock pedals to make riding impossible.Shift locks prevent the transmission from shifting.
- Alarm systems, GPS trackers and immobilizers are electronic security devices. All three devices use their own strategies to prevent theft. Alarm systems with motion detectors or glass break sensors act as a deterrent. They sound the alarm in the event of a break-in.
- With a GPS tracker you can monitor the location of your motorhome. If it is stolen, you can find it again after it has been stolen. The immobilizer is an electronic security system. It prevents the engine from starting if the wrong key or transponder signal is detected.
- Security windows and doors also reduce the risk of theft. Reinforced windows and doors can make it more difficult to break in. In addition, a hidden switch can cut off the power supply to the ignition and prevent the engine from starting.
- If possible, you should always park the motorhome in a secure parking lot or garage. Camera surveillance can deter potential thieves and provide valuable evidence if theft does occur.
Motorhome theft: who pays for which damages
There are several types of insurance you can consider to protect your motorhome against theft. Comprehensive insurance coverage will help you survive financially in the event of an emergency.
- Partial comprehensive insurance is one of the most common types of insurance for motorhomes and usually covers damage caused by theft or burglary. It covers the theft of the entire vehicle, but also covers theft of parts: for example, if parts of the motorhome such as the navigation system, the radio or other permanently installed parts are stolen. Damage caused by a break-in is also insured.
- In addition to the benefits of partial insurance, fully comprehensive insurance also covers damage caused by the driver and vandalism. It is more comprehensive and offers additional protection, but at a higher cost.
- It may be a good idea to protect the contents of your motorhome with contents insurance. This is especially true if it is a permanent residence. Check the terms of the insurance policy carefully so that you know which items are insured and to what extent.
- There are also special insurance policies for motorhomes. They offer additional services, such as inventory insurance to cover items in the motorhome. Additional theft insurance supplements the partial insurance with further services, for example in the event of theft outside Europe or for very high-value vehicles.
- Some travel insurance policies also offer additional protection when you are travelling in a motorhome. This includes theft protection for personal items.
- You should always compare different offers before taking out insurance. Make sure that the insurance cover corresponds to the value of your motorhome and its contents. Also check whether there is an excess in the event of a claim and how high this is.
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