It’s still summer here in New England, which means there’s still time to get out on the water and enjoy the warm weather while it lasts. And if you own a boat, you are taking advantage of every sunny day that you can. But it’s important to stay safe while you’re out on your boat, no matter how experienced you are. Our team at Brownell Insurance Center wants you to be able to make lasting memories with your family and friends this summer, so we’re giving you some safety tips, plus an overview of recreational vehicle insurance options.
Take Appropriate Safety Measures
The first thing to do is ensure that you and your passengers are safe in the boat. Know the weight limit of your craft, and don’t overload it with too many people. You also need to have enough life vests for everyone in the boat. In the state of NH, you must have one wearable life preserver per person in the boat. Kids under 12 have to be wearing theirs, but it’s smart for everyone to wear one, especially if they’re not strong swimmers. If you are tubing or waterskiing, make sure that you have enough spotters on board.
Keep an Eye on the Weather
New England weather can change pretty quickly, so preparation is key. Check the weather report before you head out for the day so you know if any storms are coming. If stormy weather is predicted, plan your day so that you’re back on shore before high winds, heavy rain, or lightning make an appearance. You should always have a chart (map) in your boat so you can navigate home if you find yourself in an unfamiliar area.
Know Your Insurance Options
Off the water, you also need to have the right insurance coverage in the event of an accident or damage to your boat. Here are the most common types of recreational vehicle insurance that apply to boats:
- Watercraft liability coverage covers damage and other costs, such as medical expenses, if you are involved in an accident and deemed at fault.
- Uninsured watercraft coverage protects you if another uninsured or underinsured boater is at fault.
- Emergency service coverage helps to reimburse you if you need an emergency towing service.
- Property insurance covers damage to your boat if someone hits it while you’re docked or if you are involved in an accident on the water.
- Repair endorsement is optional coverage that sets a specific monetary value to pay for repairs to your boat, motor, trailer, or other equipment.