Do you know that it is perfectly legal to operate a boat on the waterways without insurance? But who would want to make that irresponsible mistake?  Boating responsibly requires that you carry boat insurance. Typically boat insurance is not expensive to purchase and can save you a huge headache if you were to have an accident on the waterways.

Boat insurance is basically like auto insurance. You have physical damage to protect the actual boat, motor and trailer. You crash into a dock, pier, or a tree falls on the boat while parked in your yard, your boat damage will be covered. It will even cover the engine if it is stolen or damaged.

Most importantly, boat insurance carries liability and medical insurance. If you are operating a boat and someone is hurt on your boat, you crash into another boat/dock etc.. the damages that you caused would be covered under your liability or medical protection.  If you are towing a skier behind your boat and that person is injured, you are going to be responsible, therefore you need liability/medical protection.

Remember this too.. If you are towing a boat behind your car and are involved in an at fault accident, the liability coverage for damages you caused will come from the auto insurance not the boat insurance. The damage you caused to your own boat will be covered under your boat insurance policy. (There is no coverage for damages to your boat from your auto policy!)  So both are necessary not just in the water, but out of the water too.

for more information about boat insurance, please call 881-2886 and talk to our customer service team that will help you choose the best boat policy to fit your needs.

So, make sure you do not leave shore without your life jackets, whistle, throw cushion, fire extinguisher, and yes, proof of  boat insurance! Be safe on the water this summer! Happy Boating!

Philip L. Bradley is CEO of The East Cooper Ins Agency in Charleston, SC. He is licensed in property and casualty, life and health insurance in the state of SC. He is also a personal financial representative. For more information, please contact him at Philip@insuranceofcharleston.com or 843-881-2886.

Please consult your insurance professional and or an attorney before making any major choices regarding insurance or financial decisions.