Heading out onto the waterways to have some fun in the sun is part of what makes the summer season so enjoyable. For people who have boats, this time of year is also one that brings to mind the necessity of having adequate insurance. Sadly, not everyone who has a boat has enough insurance to cover property damage and injury claims that might result from a boating accident.
A study by AAA found that in Tennessee, Georgia and Florida, only 70 percent of boaters have adequate insurance. When you consider that there was approximately $39 million in property damage alone in 2013, according to the United States Coast Guard, the argument for having enough insurance is easily made.
In 2013, there were 2,620 injuries that occurred in 4,062 recreational boating accidents. There were also 560 deaths. For the people who were injured and those who lost loved ones, being compensated for the financial impact of the accident becomes paramount.
As the warm weather continues to grace this area, it is important for everyone on the waterways to ensure that they are operating their watercraft safely. However, with around 12 million watercraft registered nationally, it is easy to determine that the chance of a boating accident occurring is something that should be considered by watercraft owners long before they launch their vehicle.
People who are injured in boating accidents have the right to seek compensation for medical bills and other damages relating to the accident. Becoming familiar with maritime law and the process for seeking compensation might make getting what you deserve a little easier.
Source: Live Insurance News, “Boat insurance may be necessary even after homeowners coverage” Julie Campbell, May. 29, 2014
