You are okay, and the car is covered. But your $1,500 carbon fiber helmet took a hit (it’s trash now) and your $600 HANS device is compromised. Plus, the paramedics cut your $1,200 racing suit off you. That is $3,300 in gear. Does insurance pay for it?
Key Takeaways
- Gear is “Personal Property”: It is not part of the “Vehicle.”
- Look for “Gear Coverage”: Some policies include a small allowance for gear automatically.
- Sub-limits apply: It might only be $500 or $1,000.
- Keep Receipts: You need to prove the value of that Stilo helmet.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Auto vs. Contents
Auto insurance covers the machine. Homeowners insurance covers your stuff. But Homeowners insurance excludes “motor vehicles” and often excludes property damaged while in a motor vehicle during a race.
You fall into a gap where neither policy wants to pay.
The Investigation: Policy Add-ons
I checked the “Additional Coverage” sections again.
Lockton Motorsports
- Perk: Often includes a specific limit for “drivers gear” (helmets, suits) in the event of a covered loss.
- Limit: Check if it’s enough. If you wear top-tier pro gear, the $1,000 limit might not touch it.
OpenTrack
- Perk: They understand the costs. Their annual policy often includes better provisions for gear and tools.
Comparison Table: Gear Replacement
| Item | Replacement Cost | Standard Limit (Avg) | Gap |
| Helmet (Carbon) | $1,500 | $500 | -$1,000 |
| HANS Device | $600 | Included in above | – |
| Race Suit | $1,000 | Included in above | – |
| Total Gap | -$2,000+ |
[IMAGE: Photo of a racing helmet with a “Rejected” inspection sticker]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Inventory Your Gear: Calculate the cost of everything you wear. Helmet, HANS, suit, shoes, gloves, radio.
- Check the Sub-Limit: Look at your track policy. If it says “$1,000 for personal effects,” and you have $4,000 in gear, ask if you can increase that limit.
- Protect the Gear: If you crash, do not let your helmet roll around on the ground. Secure it. It is evidence and a claimable asset.
- Cut the Straps: Once the insurance pays for a helmet, they may ask you to destroy it (cut the straps) so it can’t be used again.
FAQ
Does this cover my laptop/GoPro?
Maybe. Electronics are often considered “Personal Effects.” Check the specific list of excluded items.
My helmet wasn’t hit, but the cert expired. Is it covered?
No. Insurance covers damage, not expiration or wear and tear.
What about tools in the trunk?
Tools are personal property. If they are damaged in the crash, they might be covered under the same “Personal Effects” limit.
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