Insurance Basics For Boaters

Before you set sail, you should practice safety on the waterways as inexperienced and irresponsible boaters can cause accidents, injury and even death. In fact, it is estimated that more than 90 percent of people in North America who drown were occupants of small boats.

Boating accidents stem from a number of factors including traveling too fast for water or weather conditions, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failing to follow boating rules and regulations, carelessness and inexperience.

To prevent boating accidents, the Insurance Information Network of California offers these suggestions:

• Check your boat and surroundings.
• Before setting out, check weather forecasts and water conditions. Notify friends or relatives of where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Check engine, fuel, electrical and steering systems, especially for exhaust system leaks.
• Carry one or more fire extinguishers, matched to the size and type of boat. Make sure they are in working condition.
• Equip the boat with a whistle, horn or bell and the required navigation lights. An anchor line and a bucket or pump for bailing water are also essential.
• Consider placing additional safety devices on your boat such as paddle or oars, first-aid kit, supply of fresh water, tool kit and spare parts, flashlight, flares and radio. If you are traveling far offshore, consider stocking your boat with a VHF radio, depth finder, survival suit and gear, life raft and Emergency Position
• Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB).
• Check your crew and any guests.
• Make sure that every person on board wears a life jacket.
• Learn and obey marine traffic laws. Make sure you are aware of any changes in state/local regulations.
• Learn various distress signals. You should also carry a 12-inch x 12-inch international orange distress flag and smoke signals. If you are boating at night, carry flares or an SOS light.
• Be alert for other watercraft, swimmers, floating debris and shallow waters.
• Be careful when you load the boat. Don't overload -- distribute the load evenly. Don't stand up or shift weight suddenly in a small boat. Don't permit riding on the bow, seatbacks or gunwales.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ADEQUATE INSURANCE

It's important to check if you have enough insurance to cover injuries, theft or damages to your boat. Your homeowners policy only provides limited coverage -- $1,000 or 10% of property coverage -- for theft and physical damages to your boat, its equipment, accessories, outboard motor or trailer. In addition, your homeowners policy may not extend to your boating activities depending on the size of your boat and the type of engine.

Ask your agent about an "endorsement" to your homeowners policy or a "package" policy to cover your vessel. An endorsement is a written form attached to the policy that alters its coverage, terms or conditions to fit your boating insurance needs. Package policies include property damage, medical bills and any liability to others. (Note: Package policies vary from company to company so check with an experienced marine insurance agent or representative to ensure you have enough coverage.) Also consider purchasing additional coverage for damage to the hull and for accidents with uninsured boaters.

If you own a large boat, consider purchasing a yacht policy to protect against damage to the boat (including the hull). You may also need to buy extra liability protection.

Ask your insurance agent or company about any available discounts. Some insurance companies give discounts (5 to 15 percent) to boaters who have attended a recognized safety education course, such as those offered by the Coast Guard, U.S. Power Squadrons, American Red Cross and others.

Discounts (5 to 10 percent) are also available for diesel powered boats equipped with safety equipment such as a fire extinguisher and ship-to-shore radios. You may also get discounts if you have not filed a claim for two years and if you buy all your insurance with the same insurer.

FOR ADDITIONAL BOATING SAFETY TIPS...

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers boating safety courses. Upon request, the auxiliary will conduct a Courtesy Marine Examination (CME) on your boat, checking electrical and safety equipment and fuel hoses.