Why Boat Insurance is Crucial For Protecting Your Family

Why You Should Consider Getting Boat Insurance

Owning a boat can significantly enhance your leisure time. You can revel in sunny days on the water, enjoying the company of friends and family. However, it’s vitally important to ensure your focus includes having the appropriate boat insurance coverage. Having your boat sufficiently insured is crucial, and we’ll delve into why below. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving the good people of Clarkston, MI.

How can boating insurance protect families?

As much as we try to avoid them, the unfortunate reality is that accidents do happen. Boating accidents are not frequent events, especially since many boaters prioritize maintaining safety on the water. Nevertheless, the United States witnesses approximately 5,000 boating accidents annually, often resulting in damage costs exceeding $50 million.

Boats tend to be pricier than cars, and the prices for a new boat can easily surpass $50,000. Some boats even come with a million-dollar price tag. Therefore, you could be looking at considerable financial vulnerability in the event of an accident, even if the accident isn’t your fault. The right boat insurance coverage can help mitigate such risks.

Comprehensive boat insurance may also cover expenses such as salvage, emergency towing, and other services. It can cover medical costs in the event of personal injuries and may even provide coverage should you or your loved ones find yourselves dealing with a civil lawsuit ensuing from your boat usage. These varied coverage types can significantly reduce risk exposure for your family.

It’s important to understand that coverage specifics can vary from plan to plan. Therefore, working with an insurance agent to understand the nitty-gritty is helpful. Reading the fine print and asking relevant questions can help you avoid future issues. If you have queries about boat insurance, don’t hesitate to contact The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI.

Three Safety Must Haves For Every Boat Owner

To make the most of your boat ownership, you need to be aware of safety precautions that are your responsibility. There are three essential items every boat owner should have on board to ensure their safety and their passengers’ safety. At The Ryan Insurance Agency, we want to help you maximize boat ownership in Clarkston, MI, and the surrounding areas. Keep reading to learn more. 

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential to your boating safety. As the boat owner and operator, you are responsible for ensuring all passengers are adequately cared for if they are injured or become sick. Not only would you need to stock up on an excellent first aid kit, but you also need to have at least some training in administering first aid. First aid classes are often offered for free in communities and among boat enthusiasts. Do a little research to find a first-aid training class. 

Life Jackets

You absolutely need to provide properly fitted life jackets for passengers. Even if your passengers are strong swimmers, having life jackets on board is still an excellent idea. A life jacket can also help rescue someone who may fall off the boat and be unable to swim due to intoxication or unconsciousness. 

Emergency Supplies

Emergency supplies are a little bit different from first aid supplies. Emergency supplies are things you would need if your boat got into distress. Emergency supplies might include food, water, blankets, flashlights, flares, and other items you would need if you could not return to the dock in time. 

If you would like to learn about boat insurance, please get in touch with us at The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, and the surrounding areas.

Tips to prepare your boat for a storm

Are you preparing to take your boat out into a storm? Before you set sail in the Clarkston, MI area, there are certain things you should do to ensure your vessel is ready for the journey. Here are some tips from us at The Ryan Insurance Agency to help you prepare your boat for a storm:

  1. Inspect the Vessel – Check all areas of your boat, including the engine and structural components, to ensure they are in good shape and can withstand rough waters. Pay close attention to the hoses and wiring, as these can be easily damaged during storms.
  2. Secure Supplies – Make sure all your supplies, such as food, water, and fuel, are securely stored on board so they won’t be tossed around during bad weather. Tie down any loose items that may get thrown off while at sea.
  3. Prepare Your Safety Gear – Have an up-to-date life raft onboard with enough space for all passengers in case of an emergency. Be sure also to have plenty of extra life jackets on board and functioning distress signals in case something goes wrong.
  4. Monitor Weather Reports – Stay informed about the conditions you may encounter throughout your trip by frequently monitoring weather reports from reliable sources such as The National Weather Service or NOAA’s National Hurricane Center. This will help you better prepare for whatever comes your way while at sea!

By following these tips, you’ll be more prepared when heading out on open waters in a stormy situation! It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to taking care of yourself and others onboard, so make sure that before leaving port, you’ve taken every precaution to ensure a successful voyage! For more tips, call us at The Ryan Insurance Agency today. We proudly serve the Clarkston, MI area.

What Are Some Common Claims Made Under Boat Insurance Policies?

Boat insurance policies offer protection against a wide range of risks, including damage to the boat, medical bills if someone is hurt on board, and liability in the event that someone is injured or property is damaged due to an accident. An important consideration for boat owners is whether their policy will cover them if they are at fault in an accident. Policies typically require that you exercise reasonable care when operating your boat and maintain adequate liability coverage. The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you in Clarkston, MI. 

Learning About Insurance Policy Claims 

Boat insurance policies offer coverage for a variety of risks. Depending on the type of boat you have, it may be required to have certain types of insurance. For example, most boats that exceed 10 feet in length are required to have liability insurance, which covers any damage your boat causes to another person or property. Most policies will also offer coverage for medical expenses if someone is injured on your boat, as well as lost wages if they are unable to work. In the event of an accident or sinking, most policies will also offer coverage for the value of the boat itself. 

Boats can be expensive, and their owners want to protect themselves from large repair bills in the event of an accident. Some common claims that you might find on a boat insurance policy include accidental sinking, false arrest, liability protection, collision, and liability for personal property in the case of a fire caused by the boat’s electrical systems. Other common claims for boat insurance include: 

  • Sinking due to a mechanical failure
  • Hauling a boat that is damaged due to a collision
  • Personal injuries from a fall from a boat
  • Docking/gar slip and fall on a boat slip or pier
  • Collision with a fixed object like a dock or pier
  • Damage to a dinghy or outboard motor that you were towing
  • Boarding a risky dinghy
  • Damage to a jet ski due to a collision
  • Hauling a jet ski that is damaged due to a collision

Final Words 

Boats are often large assets, and these assets are at risk if not adequately protected. A boat insurance policy can help to protect the boat owner if the boat is damaged or destroyed due to a covered cause. Some common claims made under boat insurance policies include coverage for accidental damage, liability, and mechanical breakdown. For inquiries, The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI can help you get started.

What Are Some Common Claims Made Under Boat Insurance Policies?

Boat insurance policies offer protection against a wide range of risks, including damage to the boat, medical bills if someone is hurt on board, and liability in the event that someone is injured or property is damaged due to an accident. An important consideration for boat owners is whether their policy will cover them if they are at fault in an accident. Policies typically require that you exercise reasonable care when operating your boat and maintain adequate liability coverage. The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you in Clarkston, MI. 

Learning About Insurance Policy Claims 

Boat insurance policies offer coverage for a variety of risks. Depending on the type of boat you have, it may be required to have certain types of insurance. For example, most boats that exceed 10 feet in length are required to have liability insurance, which covers any damage your boat causes to another person or property. Most policies will also offer coverage for medical expenses if someone is injured on your boat, as well as lost wages if they are unable to work. In the event of an accident or sinking, most policies will also offer coverage for the value of the boat itself. 

Boats can be expensive, and their owners want to protect themselves from large repair bills in the event of an accident. Some common claims that you might find on a boat insurance policy include accidental sinking, false arrest, liability protection, collision, and liability for personal property in the case of a fire caused by the boat’s electrical systems. Other common claims for boat insurance include: 

  • Sinking due to a mechanical failure
  • Hauling a boat that is damaged due to a collision
  • Personal injuries from a fall from a boat
  • Docking/gar slip and fall on a boat slip or pier
  • Collision with a fixed object like a dock or pier
  • Damage to a dinghy or outboard motor that you were towing
  • Boarding a risky dinghy
  • Damage to a jet ski due to a collision
  • Hauling a jet ski that is damaged due to a collision

Final Words 

Boats are often large assets, and these assets are at risk if not adequately protected. A boat insurance policy can help to protect the boat owner if the boat is damaged or destroyed due to a covered cause. Some common claims made under boat insurance policies include coverage for accidental damage, liability, and mechanical breakdown. For inquiries, The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI can help you get started.

Boat maintenance for lake vessels

The Ryan Insurance Agency is here for the boat owners in the Clarkston, MI community. Our team understands how much enjoyment a boat can bring to our clients’ lives! Here are a few maintenance tips for your lake vessels that we hope you find useful.

Maintenance tips for lake vessels

While boats used in freshwater don’t require as much hands-on attention and care as those used in saltwater, it is still important to keep your vessel well-maintained. Here are a few tips that can help you keep your boat in top condition:

  • Keep it clean. Be sure to rinse and wash your boat regularly, and keep it free of algae, slime, and other dirt.
  • Pay attention to the motor. Be sure to check your motor regularly. This can help prevent small problems from turning into larger ones.
  • Be sure to winterize your craft before storing it. Don’t just put your boat away for the winter without any attention. Give the engine a once-over and drain any fluids that could freeze. Be sure that the cabin area is clean and free of any trash, leftover food, or other detritus. 

By practicing good boat maintenance habits, you can be sure to enjoy your time out on the water for many years to come! Most importantly, be sure to have insurance coverage that will keep your boat protected, no matter what comes your way.

Find out more about comprehensive boat insurance today

The Ryan Insurance Agency offers a variety of boat insurance policies for boat owners in the greater Clarkston, MI area. If you would like to find out more, just call or stop by our local office today!

Boat Insurance: Get Protection From Unforeseeable Events

The market for selling and purchasing boast has registered a notable rise in many regions, including Clarkston, MI. If you are among the proud owners, The Ryan Insurance Agency wants you to feel safe every time your vessel is in the water and when it is off the shows. Purchasing liability risk insurance is among the things that should come by default when you own a boat. 

While owning a boat comes with pride, the risks involved are magnificent. They range from keeping up with maritime regulations to the cost of maintenance. That way, it goes without saying that you cannot afford to live without decent boat coverage.

Understanding The Essentials of Boat Insurance Policy 

Insurance plays a pivotal role when your boat needs repair if it gets damaged. The insurance may replace your vessel if it gets stolen or damaged beyond repair after purchasing replacement insurance cover. However, there are regulations that you must understand before moving forward. Here are some guidelines on viable policy options.

Boat Damage Coverage 

The policy has the power to protect your vessel both in the water and on land. Regardless of the state of your boat, the insurance coverage protects it from all physical damages. It shields pre-installed equipment alongside any additional ones. Here is a review of some of the losses covered:

  • Sinking
  • Burglary
  • Vandalism
  • Explosion 

A Closer Look into Boat Liability Insurance 

Your future finances are safe with the kind of insurance coverage. Whatever lays ahead is a mystery, and you may not tell what might happen when your boat is in the water. You can find yourself on the receiving end if an accident involving your boat leads to property damage or injuries. That said, you need to protect your vessel as much as you cover yourself and your crew.

Contact The Ryan Insurance Agency today for your boat liability insurance cover around Clarkston, MI. They will keep you safe from unforeseeable adversities.

Do I need boat insurance in Clarkston?

Anyone that is in the Clarkston, MI area of the country should look into purchasing a boat. Those who have a boat in this area can use the many Great Lakes and other waterways that are popular destinations during the summer months. If you would like to get a boat here, you also need to get boat insurance. There are several reasons why an owner may need to get a boat insurance plan when they are here. 

Insurance Protects Your Assets

A reason you will need to obtain a boat insurance plan is that it will protect your assets. A boat insurance plan is a very effective way to protect your vessel as it will provide you the resources needed to repair or replace your boat if it is damaged or stolen. This coverage will also be required if you took out a boat loan.

Insurance Includes Liability Coverage

When you operate a boat, you must be safe and careful. However, even if you are, there is a chance that you could cause a boat accident. Due to this risk, you need to make sure that you have proper insurance coverage. A boat liability insurance plan will give you support if you are found to be liable for damages in accident. 

Those in the Clarkston, MI area and are looking for a boat insurance plan should call the Ryan Insurance Agency team. The insurance team with The Ryan Insurance Agency understands how important this coverage is. They can help you assess your needs and options regarding coverage and help you build a plan that will cover your boat and ensure you are in full compliance with requirements. 

Three reasons why you need boat insurance coverage

If you’re a boat owner in Clarkston, MI, there are many reasons why you need to invest in boat insurance. At The Ryan Insurance Agency, we provide boat insurance policies that protect you financially and give you peace of mind while boating. 

The following are three reasons why it’s important to have boat insurance coverage. 

Boat insurance protects the value of your boat.

Boats are expensive possessions. You must spend a good sum of money to purchase a boat. If you don’t insure your boat with collision coverage, your boat could quickly lose its value if an accident occurs. You would then have to pay out of pocket to repair it.

With boat coverage, you enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that damage to your boat will be paid for by your insurance provider. 

Boat insurance can cover medical bills if you are injured while boating.

Unfortunately, boating accidents can happen. You want to be careful to avoid accidents, but when they happen, it’s essential to get the medical treatment that you need. Medical treatment for an injury while boating can be expensive even if you have health insurance. You might have to pay a large deductible before your health insurance coverage kicks in.

With boat insurance, you enjoy coverage for medical expenses resulting from boating accidents. 

Boat insurance protects you from liability expenses.

If your boat causes damages to the property of another party, you will be held liable for the resulting expenses. Boat insurance will cover these expenses so that a boating incident resulting in property damage doesn’t hurt you financially. 

Let us help you find the right boat insurance policy in Clarkston, MI. We’re here to answer your questions at The Ryan Insurance Agency

Getting Uninsured/Underinsured Boat Insurance

Michigan is well known for its many beautiful lakes and waterways. Investing in a boat is the perfect way to enjoy nature. However, before ever heading out, the boat and the captain need to be protected from a variety of situations. In the Clarkston, MI area, our agents at The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you get the coverage your boat needs. 

While boat/watercraft policies cover many different things, you should ensure that you have adequate uninsured/underinsured boater coverage. This will protect you financially if you have a collision at the dock or are hit while on the open water. It’s a prudent piece of coverage to include. 

But this is not the only part of a boat policy that you need to pay attention to. Liability coverage is important should anyone have an accident on the boat. The policy should also cover any physical damage. The mechanical equipment should also be covered whether the ship is docked or on the water. Theft and vandalism should also be addressed. Your agent may recommend maintaining coverage throughout the year, even if the boat is used only part of the year. The policy should also cover all personal possessions inside the boat, including sports equipment and water toys. 

In the Clarkston, MI area, our team at The Ryan Insurance Agency wants you to have the coverage that you need so that you can truly enjoy the many beautiful lakes in Michigan. Getting the coverage you need is simple. Visit our office and let us help you get a quote. We’ll go over your options and answer any questions that you may have. Today is the best day to get the coverage you need.