Watercraft insurance policies can cover damage to your boat, motor, trailer, and personal effects in the boat. Available coverage includes liability, medical payments, coverage for injury to a water skier, and damage to the boat itself, sometimes called hull coverage. Availability varies by state and by insurance company. Even though boat insurance premiums are low, shopping your rate can sometimes save a substantial amount.
Here are some things to think about before you take your watercraft out:
Watercraft Safety
- Follow all safety rules. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 75% of reported water fatalities in 2014 happened on boats where the driver had not received boating safety training.
- Be aware of weather conditions.
- Have operable boat lights. Always test boat lights before the boat leaves the dock and carry extra batteries.
- Never allow passengers to ride on gunwales, seatbacks, or outside of protective railings, including the front of a pontoon boat. A sudden turn, stop, or start could cause a fall overboard.
- Follow speed laws around houseboats and docks.
- Know your boat's capacity and how to properly load it. An overloaded or improperly loaded boat can cause safety problems.
- Have a working marine radio on board at all times and know how to use it.
- Ventilate after fueling. Open the hatches, run the blower, and check for fuel fumes before starting the engine.
- Infants and young children are at a higher risk for hypothermia, so if you are taking a baby on a boat, just take a few extra precautions to keep your baby warm.
Call us today, and have a great time on the water!