5 Accidental Crimes RVers Commit
There's a handful of RVers committing accidental crimes during their adventures. While these travelers mean well, they’re simply ignorant of the laws.
However, if you’re not careful, this can land you in hot water with the police and your insurance company.
To ensure you’re on the right side of the law, avoid committing any of the five accidental crimes we’ll share with you today!
What Happens If You Commit a Crime Accidentally?
As with many legal matters, what happens when you accidentally commit a crime varies based on several factors. For starters, your attitude can play a significant role in whether or not you’re charged.
You’re likely to get punished if you have a bad attitude or show no remorse for your actions. However, law enforcement or a judge may extend grace to you if you are genuinely apologetic and regretful for not being aware of an ordinance. This is typically case-by-case and is never a 100% guarantee.
Being ignorant of the law isn’t typically an excuse in most circumstances. You are responsible for being aware of the rules and regulations related to the activity you’re engaging in. Do your part to educate yourself, especially if you could face serious consequences.
5 Accidental Crimes RVers Commit
While you may think you’re a law-abiding RVer, a handful of accidental crimes are easy to commit. There’s a good chance you’ve been on the wrong side of the rules a time or two and have been guilty of these offenses.
Speeding
Speeding is something that RVers and many other drivers regularly do, but it’s illegal and dangerous. It’s easy to get in a hurry to get to a campsite or get home and unpack after an adventure. During these moments, you may push the pedal further toward the floorboard than you usually would.
Many states have specific speed limits for any vehicles towing a trailer. In California, vehicles towing a trailer must not exceed 55 mph. For some people, it’s to go that slow on the highway. But you’ll need to get used to it because it’s the law. Don’t find yourself talking to a state trooper because you have a lead foot.
More: 7 Deadly Sins of Driving on the Freeway
Exceeding Towing Capacity
The towing capacity of a vehicle isn’t a suggestion or recommendation from the manufacturer; it’s the legal limit for that vehicle. We’ve seen far too many drivers pushing boundaries and exceeding their vehicles’ capabilities by towing large trailers they simply can’t handle.
Your vehicle may be able to tow a tremendous amount of weight, but you also need to know it can stop it. Not only is exceeding the towing capacity of your vehicle illegal, but it’s hazardous. You increase the risk of trailer sway and lose your ability to control your vehicle and the trailer.
You could find yourself in a serious legal situation if you are in a wreck while towing a load that exceeds your vehicle’s towing capacity. Your insurance company could deny any claims even if it was an accidental crime. You may be financially responsible for all repairs and medical bills associated with the incident.
Improper Storage
Many people buy RVs and don’t consider local rules and ordinances. However, some homeowner associations and city codes may prohibit storing a recreational vehicle in the driveway or anywhere visible from the road. These owners must keep their campers elsewhere if they want to be legal.
Unfortunately, there’s little you can do about this. If you live in an area that prohibits storing an RV at your residence, you’ll need to pay for storage elsewhere. This can get incredibly expensive and easily costs $130 to $170 per month, depending on the size of your rig and the type of storage you want.
Some new RV owners aren’t aware of these rules and regulations until it’s too late. They may feel proud of their rig sitting in the driveway until they receive a letter informing them that they’re violating local codes.
Using Their RV As a Residence
RV life has become trendy lately, and many people park on land they own. However, while you may be able to live comfortably in your new rig, it’s not always legal. Some areas classify motorhomes differently and don’t consider them permanent dwellings. Local ordinances may require a separate structure that meets specific standards.