Here in the Midwest, we are blessed with only a few months of good ol’ summertime and boating opportunities each year. However, folks in other areas of the country may be boating through the holidays! My family doesn’t own a boat, but we have wonderful friends that do. We have the pleasure of enjoying the water without the expense and concerns of being an actual boat owner, thanks to our friends who provide us with great summertime entertainment. Whether you are a boat owner or a “moocher” (wink wink), enjoy your time out on the water safely by keeping a few things in mind, courtesy of Insurance Journal:
- Recreational boating in 2013 accounted for 4,062 accidents that involved 2,620 injuries, 560 deaths, and approximately $39 million dollars of property damage. – United States Coast Guard (USCG)
- Compared to 2012, the number of boating accidents decreased by 10 percent in 2013; the number of deaths decreased by 14 percent, and the number of injuries decreased by 12.7 percent. – United States Coast Guard (USCG)
- The top 5 primary contributing factors to boating accidents in 2013 were: operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed, and machinery failure. – United States Coast Guard (USCG)
- There were 5,537 watercraft thefts in the U.S. in 2013, down 6 percent from 2012, with jet skis being the most frequently stolen watercraft. – Insurance Information Institute (III)
- It was estimated that 25,000 boats in New Jersey were damaged during Hurricane Sandy, at a cost of $242 million. – Insurance Information Institute (III)
I have a lot of respect for my friends, the boat owners, because they take the necessary precautions to keep their family and friends safe on the water. I’m also confident when boating with my friends since I know they carry the proper boat insurance. If you are a boat owner, please keep the safety of your passengers in mind! And of course, don’t forget to do an annual review with your independent insurance agent to be sure you are covered in a time of need!
You can read the full article here for even more helpful information about boating and marinas.
