Category: Boat/Watercraft Insurance

Under California law, you are not required to carry boat insurance. Boating is a very popular activity in Folsom, CA, and many boaters probably carry either no insurance or inadequate protection.  Even if you choose not to carry insurance through T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, you are still responsible for anything that happens when you are out boating. Because there are more boats on California waterways, the state has a higher risk of being in an accident.

Boats and Accidents

California has some particularly great places for boating. Unfortunately, that also means that other people take advantage of the great location to let loose on the water. Even if you are careful and follow every rule, you may still be in an accident. Accidents may be caused by speeding, bad weather, or even just not paying attention. This can lead to property damage, injury, and even death. When there is no insurance, how will those damages get paid?

Who Was at Fault?

If you were at fault during an accident, the injured party or parties can sue you for compensation. When you have insurance, those parties will deal with your insurance company instead of you. If you were negligent and caused an accident, your policy will pay up to the maximum limits you chose. On the other hand, if you choose not to carry insurance, you will be personally liable for any damages and deal directly with victims.

Reach Out To Us

Boat insurance from T.D. McNeil Insurance Services will keep you from using your own bank account and property to compensate accident victims. If you enjoy boating in Folsom, CA, please feel free to call and learn how boat insurance can benefit you.

Getting out on the water is a fulfilling and relaxing activity for many people. While you are out having fun, it is important to also stay safe, no matter what type of boat you are using. Consult with T.D. McNeil Insurance Services in Folsom, CA for insurance for your vessel and related advice. 

Here are some tips for safe boating:

Swimming skills

Know how to swim, and make sure everyone aboard the boat also knows how to swim. Better yet, take a class that teaches about water safety, first aid and how to help someone who is in trouble in the water. Also know about swimming in rough conditions, such as rip currents, if you will be boating near or in the ocean.

Life preservers

Have enough life preservers for everyone who will be riding in your boat. Make sure everyone wears a life preserver and knows how to use it safely and correctly. If you have a large enough boat, you should also have other safety equipment on board, such as a safety raft.

Enough supplies

Make sure you have enough supplies in and on your boat, including plenty of fuel. Have plenty of food, water, batteries, extra clothing and shoes, sunscreen, insect repellant, rope, rain gear, communication devices, and ways to call for help if needed.

Safe operating

Know and follow boating laws. Learn how to operate your boat for optimal safety. That includes safe speed, safe maneuvering, courtesy toward other boaters, and more. If needed, take a class that will inform you about the proper and safe operation of your boat. Also know about carbon monoxide, how to detect it and what to do if you do detect it. If a storm is approaching, immediately go back to the shore or marina. Never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

To get more details about boating safety and insurance, contact T.D. McNeil Insurance Services serving the Folsom, CA area.

When you own a boat in Folsom, CA, you want to ensure it’s appropriately insured. There are two main types of boat insurance policies: replacement cost and actual cash value. It is imperative that you understand the difference between the two, as the policy you choose will determine how you are compensated following a covered loss. Many people aren’t familiar with the difference between these two policies, which is why T.D. McNeil Insurance Services is taking the time to explain below.

Replacement Cost Policies

A replacement cost boat insurance policy is not going to take depreciation into account. This type of policy will simply determine the value to repair/replace your boat after damage without adjusting for depreciation. In other words, you will be reimbursed for the amount it takes to cover the damage to your vessel, regardless of whether your boat was worth less at the time of the incident.

Actual Cash Value Policies

An actual cash value boat insurance policy is going to take into account depreciation. This type of policy will determine the value to repair/replace your boat and then reduce that determined amount by the depreciated value as determined by the vessel’s age. Therefore, in the event of a total loss, you will only receive what your boat was worth at the time of the incident and nothing more.

Limits and Deductibles

Regardless of the type of policy you have, you are likely to be subject to a deductible. In addition, there are still policy limits that cannot be exceeded.

If you need help understanding your current policy or are in the market for boat insurance, reach out to our team at T.D. McNeil Insurance Services. Serving the Folsom, CA area, we are happy to help you understand both types of boat insurance coverage and help you determine which one is best suited for your situation.