Learn why boating insurance is a must!

Summertime is the perfect time to head out on the water. From setting sail on the ocean to cruising on the lake, boating is a great way to unwind and relax. However, as a boat owner, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to keep your boat and your family and friends safe when out enjoying the water. Boating accidents and theft can be devastating in a variety of ways so to give you peace of mind it’s important to secure the right boat insurance for your needs. Let us at Randy Jones Insurance help you find the right coverage for your needs. Here’s a little more information about boating risks and how you can take steps to protect against them.

Here Are a Few Boating Accident Facts:

  • Boating accidents can cause serious damage in both bodily injury and property damage. In 2013, over 4,000 accidents caused more than 2,000 injuries, 500 deaths, and approximately $39 million dollars’ worth of property damage. To help avoid some common causes of boating accidents we recommend the following: be experienced with handling your boat and water toys properly and being familiar with boating etiquette and water rules: don’t speed just because you are in open water; be knowledgeable about your boat’s mechanics; be knowledgeable about  general safety as well as well as what to do in the event of a boating accident; and always make sure the driver and others on board are keeping an eye out for your party and other boaters and people in the water.
  • Boating theft is more common than you might thinkWith more than 5,500 incidents of watercraft theft, it’s important to keep equipment locked up, to secure your boat and trailer and to invest in boat insurance to protect your investment.
  • Natural disasters can also put your boat at risk. When storms hit, depending on how bad they are, boats can sustain a lot of damage. Several thousand boats were damaged after Hurricane Sandy hit the coast. Take precautions to secure your boat when a storm is expected and choose the right insurance coverage so that your boat is well protected.
  • Be aware of polluting due to boat damage or maintenance issues. If your boat should spring a leak, you’re liable for any pollution that it causes. If not maintained properly rust, oil leaks, loose parts can cause pollutants to waterways and lakes and you could be held responsible.  Stay up on your boating maintenance, and ensure that you invest in the right insurance coverage to help protect you from disaster.

To be able to enjoy your boat when the season starts and all summer long without worry, review your boat insurance early each season to make sure you are properly covered along with the seasonal maintenance of your boat. Let us help you find the right boat insurance for your needs. Contact us at Randy Jones Insurance Services in Pleasanton, California for assistance finding the right insurance policy for your needs.