Anchors Away with Boat Owners Insurance

On bright and sunny summer days the allure of water can be irresistible. When warm weather hits, if you live near a lake, river, or ocean, boating trips may be just around the corner. Before you set sail, take some time to consider whether you and your passengers meet the required safety standards, and are prepared for unforeseen events.

Boating can be a lot of fun, but sometimes, it can also be dangerous. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that for the years 1999 through 2003 the average number of fatalities per month in boating accidents is: 95 in May, 128 in June, 157 in July, and 96 in August. Fortunately, the Coast Guard reports that the number of fatal accidents is on the decline, as compared to previous years. To further this trend, the Coast Guard offers online boating safety tips at www.uscg.mil and the opportunity to take any number of boating safety courses. However, as a result of potential mishaps and liabilities, many boat owners have become increasingly aware of the need for boat owners insurance.

A typical boat owners policy can provide protection for your boat, motor, and equipment against damages incurred by weather, sinking, capsizing, stranding, explosion, fire, and theft. A policy can also safeguard boat equipment, which may include anchors, oars, fuel tanks, life jackets, dinghies, tools, and canopies. Liability coverage may also be offered as legal protection against damages inflicted by the use of your boat, and can also cover medical treatment needed by you or your occupants as a result of an accident.

Often the opportunity exists to add additional coverage to your policy. Some examples of possible add-ons are those for reasonable repairs (which prevent further damage), emergency services, and wreck removal. In many cases, discounted policy rates will exist for owners who have taken boating safety courses, have good driving records, or if the age of the boat and all operators is deemed favorable.

When selecting a boat owners policy ask questions. Some topics you might want to discuss include:

• What laws apply that are unique to my state?
• Is my trailer covered, and which boating supplies are covered?
• Will completing boating safety courses procure discounts, and if so, which courses?
• Are both inland and ocean boating covered?
• Is there an age limit on operators, and who will be covered?

When applying for a boat owners insurance policy, be prepared to answer such questions as:

• The age and driving record of the operators;
• The year, type, model, value, power supply, and material of the boat;
• The amount of horsepower, year, and value of the motor; and
• The manufacturer, year, and value of your trailer.

Taking a few minutes to answer these questions can result in policy coverage that will protect both you and your loved ones. Routine safety checks are common before embarking on a boating trip. With the purchase of boat owners insurance you will know that you have gone one step further, and are shielded from the sometimes unpredictable elements of the sea. Give us a call, and one of our qualified insurance professionals will be happy to discuss your boat coverage options.

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