Personal Watercraft Insurance, Boat Insurance, is it Really Needed?
When you think of California, surf, sand, and blue oceans come to mind. Water sports are popular pastimes among residents and visitors alike. If you are one of those people who love the water, proper insurance for motorized water craft is a must. Many California car insurance companies that insure your vehicles will also insure your toys. Before taking to the water, call your car insurance company and get rates for your boat or personal watercraft (PWC).
There are many different types of boats and California car insurance companies have different rates depending on what boat you have. It is a good idea to obtain insurance for all motorized watercraft. Personal non-motorized watercraft can be insured, but it isn’t as important to do so. Insurance typically covers damages you are liable for when you make a mistake or have a loss due to fire, animals or other non-preventable incidences. If your boat or PWC is not worth a lot and not motorized, insurance is not needed, but if your boat has a high risk of injury or will cost a lot to repair/replace, definitely insure it.
Passenger boats are usually powered by motors and are bigger than a canoe. These boats usually can carry three or more passengers comfortably. Serious bodily and property damage can be done with these boats. At the very least, liability insurance should be purchased. If the boat is stored by a company during off months, ask them if your boat is covered if something happens. You may be able to save some money by dropping your insurance coverage during winter months if it is covered by the storage company’s liability policy. States differ in their insurance laws and minimums. Contact your California car insurance carrier for requirements and rates.
