U-Haul Trailer & Towing Insurance Options Explained
Last Updated:
If you rent a U-Haul trailer or towing equipment, you can add optional protection plans to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs if something goes wrong. Your two options are Safetow® and SafeTrip®. Without these options, you’re financially responsible for any and all damage to the rental equipment, regardless of fault.
U-Haul Trailer and Towing Rental Coverage Options
The two options available for all U-Haul trailers and towing equipment are:
- Safetow: Protection for your equipment, your cargo or vehicle, and medical/life protection
- SafeTrip: Supplemental roadside protection
Looking for other U-Haul insurance options? Read our Complete Guide of U-Haul Insurance Options.
How Can I Insure my Trailer Rental?
Safetow is the primary protection option when renting a U-Haul trailer or towing device (like a tow dolly or auto transport). By default, you are responsible for damage to the rented equipment. Here’s what you get when you purchase Safetow:
- Damage Waiver
- Towed Property Protection
- Medical/Life Protection
Damage Waiver
Covers damage to the U-Haul rental trailer or towing device. This frees you of all responsibly for damage.
Towed Property Protection
Covers damage to your cargo (in a trailer) or your vehicle (when being transported on a trailer). There is a $100 deductible per occurrence.
|
Protection Limits: Coverage Amounts |
$5,000 |
|
$10,000 |
|
|
$15,000 |
|
|
$20,000 |
Note: automobiles are not covered by Safetow in the state of Virginia.
Medical/Life Protection
Covers you with medical and life protection in case of an accident. Your passengers’ protection applies only while they are riding in the passenger area of the towing vehicle.
|
Protection Limits: |
Lessee |
Passenger |
|
Loss of Life |
$10,000 |
$5,000 |
|
Medical |
$500 |
$500 |
Do I Need SafeTrip if I Already Have Safetow?
SafeTrip is a separate supplemental roadside protection option focused on help on the road. This can be especially helpful when you’re towing, because small problems can turn into big delays when there’s a trailer involved.
Towing with a U-Haul truck? Get to know your truck insurance options.
Why is Coverage for Trailer Rentals Important?
A common assumption is “my auto policy has me covered.” However, in many cases, personal auto insurance does not cover damage to the towing device when transporting a car. It is always best to confirm coverage and deductibles with your insurance provider.
Towing Adds a Few Extra “What ifs”
Even a careful driver can run into situations like:
- Tight turns or backing mishaps
- Road hazards that affect the trailer or towing device
Coverage options don’t replace safe towing habits, but they can help protect your budget if the unexpected happens.
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
- Want protection for the rental trailer/towing device and what you’re hauling? Look at Safetow.
- Want extra peace of mind for roadside issues? Add SafeTrip.
Ready to tow? Add the coverage you want when you reserve your trailer or towing equipment so you can hit the road with a plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trailer Insurance Options
Is damage coverage required for a U-Haul trailer or towing device rental?
No, it is optional. If you choose to decline, you’re financially responsible for any and all damage to the rental equipment, regardless of fault.
Are there limitations to Safetow coverage?
Yes, Safetow does not cover damage caused by improper packing, normal shifting of cargo, or theft of cargo. Automobiles are not covered by Safetow in Virginia.
Will my auto insurance cover a U-Haul towing device if I’m towing my car?
In most cases it does not, and you should check with your insurance carrier and review deductibles to understand your coverage.
Need more help? Read all of our U-Haul Damage Coverage FAQs.