Do You Need Boat Insurance in Washington?
Boat insurance is not required by law in the state, but if you are at a marina, you may be required to show proof of insurance. At a marina, your boat is near other boats and the potential for loss of your boat, such as from a fire, can affect other ships or even the dock.
Many boat owners are under the impression that their homeowner's insurance will cover their boat. While there is some truth to this, if you rely on this as your only insurance, it could cost you a lot of money. Home policies have minimal coverage when it comes to small boats. It’s best to purchase a standalone boat insurance policy.
What Does Boat Insurance Cover in Washington?
A boat insurance policy is similar to an auto insurance policy in terms of what kinds of coverage it provides. A boat insurance policy will provide liability and property damage coverage in the event of an accident and, depending on your policy with ASKE Insurance Advisors, it can include more.
- Property Damage Coverage: This will cover damage to the boat or marine equipment, including machinery, fittings, furnishings, the hull, and permanently attached equipment.
- Liability Coverage: This coverage can cover you if your boat hits another boat, a swimmer, or a dock.
- Medical Expenses: This will cover injuries to you and your passenger as a result of a boating accident.
- Fuel Spill Liability: If you get into an accident and fuel spills or there is wreckage in the water, you will be responsible for these costs. If you have this insurance, it can protect you from the fines associated with this and the cost to clean up.
- Personal Effects Coverage: This insurance will cover specific sporting equipment and belongings that are kept on the insured watercraft.
- Emergency Assistance: This coverage can assist you if you are stranded on the water.
Contact ASKE Insurance Advisors to get a quote on boat and watercraft insurance.
