Boat Insurance Basics

Enjoying the beautiful waters of Missouri is part of summertime fun. Spending an afternoon fishing or spending time with friends creates memories that will last forever. Investing in a boat brings responsibilities. It needs to be insured before you ever head out onto the water. At Focus Insurance, our team works with boaters in the Eureka, MO area every day. We’re ready to answer any questions that you have and make policy recommendations based on how often you use your boat and its size.

There are several features that you should look for in a boat insurance policy. It should provide coverage for mechanical equipment and protect the boat from any physical damage. Personal liability coverage protects you if someone is injured on the boat due to your negligence. Vandalism and theft of items should also be covered. Talk with your agent if you only use the boat a time or two a year. There may be options to save money on your coverage. Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage will also protect you on the water. Finally, your policy should cover everything inside of the boat, including personal possessions and sporting equipment. 

In the Eureka, MO area, our team at Focus Insurance can help you get the coverage that you need for your boat. Your time on the water should be focused on fun, not worries about potential accidents. Our agents will provide you with a range of insurance options that will put your mind at ease. Events such as severe damage to a boat or someone being injured can become financially disastrous. To adequately cover your investment in your boat takes spending a little time with a knowledgeable agent. Explore information on our website then contact us for more information. The time to take care of your boat is today! Give us a call now!

Does My Boat Need to Be Covered with Insurance in the Winter?

There is no question that when you are enjoying time on the water or transporting your boat, you need insurance coverage. What about the rest of the year, though? For those who live in cold climates in the winter, boat insurance might seem unnecessary — no need to worry, though. Focus Insurance wants to make sure our family and friends in Eureka, MO know what path to take.

Boat insurance is optional when the boat is not in use, but we highly recommend it for one big reason: Neither the water nor transporting your boat are the only dangers it might face. 

  • Winter often brings with it harsh storms that can do more damage to your boat than you might think.
  • The risk of fire does not die during the winter. In fact, the risk might even increase with the drier weather.
  • Theft and vandalism are year-round risks that are often more likely to occur at your home than when you are in it on the water.
  • It is also important to note that if you are financing your boat, your lender may require that you keep insurance on the vessel for a specified period.

What About My Home Insurance?

If you carry home insurance, there is a chance that it covers your boat, especially if it is a small boat. However, larger boats will likely require their own or additional coverage. 

It is always best not to assume that your boat is covered. Check your current policy to find out if your boat is already included. If you are uncertain, stop by or give Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO a call today. We would love to help you protect your investment!

 

Insurance Coverage for Teenage Boat Drivers

Is your teen looking forward to being able to drive your family’s boat this summer? If you are adding a teenager to your crew, you may want to take another look at your boat insurance policy. The team at Focus Insurance understands that as your family grows and changes your insurance needs do to. Boat owners in the greater Eureka, MO area have long relied on our professional team to get the information and guidance that they need to better understand their boat insurance options. Because teenaged captains are less experienced, you may want to review your current policy and ensure that it provides the protection that you need.

Comprehensive Boat Coverage for All Drivers

Boating is something that most of us get better at with experience. As we understand how the water behaves we are better able to captain a boat safely. Even the most conscientious boat drivers can make mistakes, and when a young person is just starting to learn the ropes accidents can happen. Don’t let your teenager cause a mishap that could potentially cause your family to lose your craft. There are policies available that provide protection from liability, damage, and other losses. It is important that everyone who operates your boat understand how to keep the vessel and its passengers safe. Many policies will recommend that all operators take a safety course each year to refresh their skills and stay abreast of new information and regulations. When a teenager is starting to learn more about safe boat operation, these courses are quite helpful.

Want to find out more about how a comprehensive boat insurance policy can protect all operators of your vessel? The professional team at Focus Insurance is here to help you fully protect your Eureka, MO area boat.

How Boat Insurance Protects Your Passengers

For boat owners, taking on the lakes and rivers of Missouri is one of the best ways to spend your day off. It is even better when you have family and friends on board with you. Before you take your loved ones out on your boat, protect them with quality boat insurance. Focus Insurance, serving the Eureka, MO area, has a boat insurance policy that will protect your guests on the water.

Boat Insurance Requirements and Recommendations

While all boats in Missouri are required to be registered, insurance is highly recommended but not required. However, since boating has become an increasingly popular activity for Missouri residents over the last decade, a relaxing day on the river should be prepared for the unexpected, especially when you are carrying your family and friends out of the water with you. 

Collision

A responsible boat owner is always prepared for unexpected circumstances, including the lack of responsibility by other boat owners. With the increase in watercraft purchases, the traffic on the lake or river will increase, also increasing the risk of accidents. Purchasing boat insurance protects your passengers during these circumstances when they are victim to a collision. Circumstances around these events are already stressful enough with damages and potential bodily injury.

Liability

Unfortunately, liability can also fall to you in certain situations. When this happens, you, as well as your passengers, are also affected. Even if you are not directly responsible, but one of your passengers is, your insurance will cover them, further protecting them in the accident. If this unforeseen event happens to you, any passengers riding with you will be protected by your boat coverage. 

Contact Us Today!

If you reside in Eureka, MO or the surrounding areas and are in need of boating insurance, Focus Insurance has an agent ready to assist you today.