Even the most enthusiastic off-roaders know that you have to have insurance on the vehicle you drive to work every day, but did you know insurance is essential for the 4x4 you take onto the dirt as well? Even if your choice of off-road vehicle isn't a 4x4 truck, but an old Jeep or an ATV, insurance is essential, but what you drive dictates the kind of insurance you get.

For machines actually designed as off-road vehicles (ORVs) like snowmobiles, four-wheelers, and even golf carts, there are special policies that allow you to drive on designated trails, and in some cases on resort property, but only if the wheels of your vehicle never touch actual pavement.

For 4x4's, especially if your truck has been modified for better off-road use, you have other options:

• Insure your vehicle as off-road-only. You'll be required to prove that you own a registered, insured tow-trailer so that the wheels never touch real roads, but you'll be covered on the trail.
• If the modifications you've made to your 4x4 don't render it illegal to drive, you may be able to qualify for specialty or collector insurance, since the companies that write such policies also cover exotic and performance vehicles. You may be required to have your vehicle appraised, and you will definitely have to provide details on all the mods, but this insurance is less expensive than regular coverage on a daily-driver. Increase the coverage on your standard policy. This is something you should consider only if you don't own another vehicle for daily use, as it's pretty pricey. Again, you'll have to provide details of your modifications, but with off-roading gaining in popularity, many mainstream affordable insurance companies are adding recreational-use endorsements.
• Contact smaller insurance companies. They often offer "niche" products, like recreational use policies, and off-road policies.

Whatever option you choose to insure your 4x4, that recreational use coverage is essential. Also, you'll want to be sure that your policy includes the following options, which are generally excluded from standard insurance policies, but common with ORV insurance:

• Coverage for replacement and repair of aftermarket parts
• Increased liability coverage
• Coverage for replacement or repair of safety gear, including protective clothing, helmets, and goggles.
• Coverage for accidents NOT resulting from collisions, including medical care (for example, if you should flip your truck)
• Coverage for your towed trailer or sled.

Off-roading is a rugged sport, and doing so in a 4x4 ups the ante, and increases the adrenaline rush. ORV-specific insurance may seem like just another added expense, but it's really just one more way of being safe, and it doesn't make you or your truck any less tough.