You are loading your ATV into your pickup bed. The ramp slips. The ATV flips backward, crushing the tailgate of the truck and smashing the ATV’s handlebars and plastics. You have two damaged vehicles. Which policy pays?
Key Takeaways
- The “Loading/Unloading” Clause: Most auto policies exclude damage to the cargo (the ATV) but cover the truck.
- The ATV Policy: Covers the damage to the ATV (Collision claim).
- Two Deductibles: You will likely have to pay the deductible for the truck and the deductible for the ATV.
- Ramps are not covered: The ramps themselves (unless permanently attached) are usually not covered or fall under a deductible higher than their value.
The “Why” (The Trap): Cross-Liability
- Truck Policy: “We cover the tailgate because it is part of the truck. We deny the ATV because it is ‘cargo’.”
- ATV Policy: “We cover the ATV because it was in an accident. We deny the truck because ‘Property Damage Liability’ usually excludes property owned by the insured.” (You can’t be liable to yourself).
The Investigation: Who pays what?
I ran this scenario by a State Farm agent (who handles both auto and powersports).
- Result: He confirmed the “Double Deductible” pain.
- Claim 1 (Truck): Comprehensive/Collision on the truck policy covers the tailgate. Deductible: $500.
- Claim 2 (ATV): Collision on the ATV policy covers the flip. Deductible: $500.
- Total Out of Pocket: $1,000.
Comparison Table: Loading Damage
| Item Damaged | Truck Insurance | ATV Insurance | Homeowners |
| Truck Tailgate | Yes (Collision) | No (Excluded) | No |
| ATV | No (Cargo) | Yes (Collision) | No (Motor Vehicle Exclusion) |
| Ramps | No | Maybe (Accessory) | No |
[IMAGE: Illustration of an ATV vertical on a loading ramp with damage points highlighted]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Strap the Ramps: Insurance doesn’t prevent stupidity. Use a safety strap to lock the ramp to the hitch so it can’t slip.
- Assess the Damage: If the ATV only needs $200 in handlebars, don’t file a claim. Save the claim for the truck tailgate (which can cost $2,000+ with cameras/sensors).
- Bundle Policies: If both vehicles are with the same carrier (e.g., Progressive), some have a “Single Deductible” feature where you only pay the highest deductible if both are damaged in the same event.
- Use a Trailer: It is safer and reduces the risk of the “rollover onto the cab” scenario.
FAQ
Does homeowners insurance cover this?
No. Homeowners strictly excludes motor vehicles.
What if the ATV falls on a friend helping me?
Your ATV Liability (Bodily Injury) should cover your friend’s injury, unless your policy has a “Family/Household” exclusion and they live with you.