How Do I Pay For Damage To The Toys Im Hauling On My Trailer If It Gets Rear
Unfortunately, the mini tort only applies to motor vehicles and, thus, cannot help with paying to fix toys that were damaged when a trailer is rear-ended on the freeway.
Those fixes would have to be covered by insurance policies taken out on the specific items.
I recommend to everyone that they insure their trailers and the contents separately an individual policy for each item, i.e., jet ski insurance, boat insurance, motorcycle insurance and, even trailer insurance. Then, if any of the items are damaged as a result of a crash, the owner seeks coverage for repairs or replacement through that insurance company.
Michigan Boating Accident Coverage: Everything You Need To Know
From an evening ride on a neighborhood lake to a week-long trip around the Upper Peninsula, Michigan offers boating enthusiasts an endless array of options. Nonetheless, even the most experienced operator can be involved in a boating accident. When that happens, it is important to understand what is covered by insurance and when to seek reimbursement from the responsible party. Here is an overview of Michigan boating accident coverage.
Life Jackets Required For All
As the boat owner, you are required by law to have one life jacket per person aboard your boat at all times. Life jackets are not only a requirement, they are also important safety features. Study after study finds that life jackets are one of the most important influencers in boating-related deaths, and can decrease fatality rates by as much as 80%. Skiiers, tubers, and anyone else being pulled behind a boat are required to wear their life jacket.
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Boat And Watercraft Insurance In Caro Frankenmuth Saginaw Vassar Ortonville And Surrounding Areas
Whether you own a paddle boat or a power boat, you want to enjoy your time on the water without worry. Well help you leave your worries on dry land and fully enjoy your time on the water.
Getting out on the water should be carefree, but owning and running a boat brings several financial risks. Watercraft insurance means you can stop worrying about those risks and get back to relaxing on your boat.
Boat insurance policies usually have two standard elements, with two optional extras that are worth considering. One standard feature is insurance coverage for physical damage to the boat, whether that be from a collision, fire, severe weather, theft or vandalism. The other standard feature in a boat insurance policy is liability, meaning youre covered for damage you cause to other boats or people, along with the associated legal costs. Look for insurance policies that cover the costs of cleaning up any oil spillages if your boat is severely damaged, as well.
One optional element of watercraft insurance is coverage for theft of or damage to your personal possessions kept or used on your boat. This is well worth considering when you think about the costs of sports or fishing equipment and expensive gadgets. You can also get optional boat towing and assistance coverage that protects you against the costs that come up if your boat breaks down while out on the water.
Spending time on the water is fun. Talk with us about getting the proper boat insurance coverage in place today.
What Should I Do After A Boating Accident
Victims of boating accidents should follow the same basic guidelines that apply to automobile crashes or other types of accidents. However, when an accident takes place on the water, there is the added risk of someone falling overboard and drowning. Therefore, it is important to determine whether anyone is missing and call for help as quickly as possible before proceeding with the following steps:
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Michigan Boat Coverage On Your Homeowners Policy
Does my homeowners policy cover my boat? It might. It depends on the size of your boat, your desired coverage, and where and how you store it.
Homeowners insurance policies typically allow limited protection for property damage to small sailboats and powerboats with horsepower less than 25 mph. The policy likely will only cover damage that occurs while it is on your property. However, Insurance companies limit coverage for watercraft on a homeowners policy to $1,000 or 10% of a homes property value.
Wind and hail damage claims apply to times when the boat is in a fully enclosed building, such as a shed or garage, on your property. A homeowners policy also typically will not include liability insurance for the boat, though you can schedule an endorsement. Theft coverage also may not have coverage. Read your policy or better yet, ask your agent to get full details.
The main takeaway is that there is a limit on your homeowners insurance coverage for boats.
Put Our Experienced Boating Accident Lawyers To Work For You Today
Even the most careful boater can have an accident due to someone elses negligence. If you or a loved one is injured in a boating accident, call us right away. Our experienced legal team will fight to win the compensation you and your family deserve.
Boating accident law is complicated, but finding the right boating accident lawyer is simple.
Dont let the legal clock run out. Start your case today by filling out the form below or calling 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation remote consultation from the comfort and safety of your home.
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Do You Need Insurance For A Trailer
If your trailer has more than two wheels, then, yes, you will need to have insurance for a trailer for in Michigan. However, if your trailer only has two wheels, then, no, you wont need insurance for a trailer in Michigan.
But just because you may not be legally required to get No-Fault insurance coverage doesnt mean you should go without coverage. As a car accident lawyer, I always recommend that people hauling a trailer still get some level of insurance for a trailer as its very inexpensive.
Im writing about insurance for a trailer today because I always get asked about it this time of year. People want to know what happens if someone rear-ends them on the highway and causes damage to their trailers and to the toys all the boats, camping gear, jet skis, motorcycles, ORVs, mopeds and mountain bikes that we see people hauling to cottages and lakes in the summer months.
As an accident attorney, the legal analysis starts with what type of trailer they have. The type of trailer and whether that trailer has insurance that includes auto No-Fault coverage will determine how damage to the trailer and to the toys such as the boats, camping equipment, jet skis, motorcycles, ORVs, bikes and mopeds gets paid or not.
Who Offers The Best Boat Insurance Rates
Many insurance companies offer competitive boat insurance rates. Shop around to make sure you are getting the information you need to make an informed decision. Sites like allthingsboat.com and consumeraffairs.com provide reviews for many different insurance companies and are great places to begin your research. Speak with other boaters find out what features are important to them and why. Do your homework by researching different companiesâ offerings and you will be prepared to make the best decision for your needs.
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A Comprehensive Guide To Michigan Boating Laws
When youre in Michigan, youre never more than 6 miles from an inland lake or 85 miles from one of the states Great Lakes. With more than 11,000 lakes in the state, its no wonder boating tops the list of favorite things to do for many Michiganders. And with months of sunshine ahead, many are getting their boats back on the water this time of year. But before dropping anchor, there are important Michigan boating laws and safety tips you should be aware of.
What Is The Best Type Of Boat Insurance
The best type of boat insurance is insurance coverage that adequately meets your legal and contractual obligations and allows you to feel comfortable about your exposure to risk. Because each individual situation is different, it is important that you determine what coverage factors matter most to you and your family. Spend time researching your options and speak with multiple insurance brokers or agencies. Allthingsboat.com has an excellent review of boat insurance providers.
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Find A Boat And Watercraft Policy To Protect Your Investment
Michigan lakes are known for their pristine beauty. Thatâs why so many invest in boats to spend time out on the water. They and the people who use them need to be protected in several different situations. The insurance policies that cover boats are a little different than the ones for automobiles. At Dalessandro Agency Inc. in the Kentwood, MI area, we work with Michigan boaters to get them the coverage that will protect both the boat and everyone who uses it. Our agents will spend time explaining the range of available options so that you are protected financially.
Many believe that their homeownerâs insurance policy automatically protects their boat. For small boats, this can be an option, but generally, most ships donât fall into this category. Your agent will be able to discuss the types of coverage you need based on the size of the boat and how it is used. For yachts and large ships destined for international waters, specific coverage is necessary to protect you and the boat itself.
In the Kentwood, MI area, our team of agents at the Dalessandro Agency Inc. are ready to help you get the boat/watercraft insurance you need. Call or come by our offices to discuss the number of options that you have.
Boating This Summer & Need Insurance
Compass Insurance Agency is the place to find the best quotes for all of your boating needs. Dont let the lack of insurance keep you from enjoying the water this summer. Compass can provide you with all the best coverage option to get you and your passengers insured so you can get out on the water and enjoy without worry. Just click the link below or call so we can find out how much boat insurance costs for you and exactly how much boat insurance youll actually need.
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How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost
According to trustedchoice.com, the cost of boat insurance generally ranges from $300 to $500 per year, on average. Depending on the type of boat and your personal profile, your insurance costs may be significantly higher. âThe type of boat, its length, and the expected use of the boat will largely dictate your boat insurance rates. Whether you have a speed boat, a small fishing boat, or a yacht will make a big difference in what you pay.â Another insurance comparison resource tells us that a good approximation for your annual premiums is 1.5% the current market value of your boat.
Michigan Boating Laws Registration Of All Motorized Vessels And Operator Requirements
Before you put your motorized boat in the water, it needs to be registered with the Secretary of State . Youll then be issued an identification number for your boat, which must be displayed on both sides of the vessel. These numbers must always be visible and should never go below the waterline. Boating registrations expire on March 31st during the third year of its issuance. So, for example, if you registered your boat in July of 2019, its registration would have expired on March 31, 2021.
Finally, according to Michigan boating laws, boats that are shorter than 16 feet and powered only by hand with an oar or a paddle dont require registration. Examples of these vessels include kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and paddleboats. Boats of any length with a motor require a trip to SOS.
Who can operate a boat in Michigan is determined by the states boating laws as well. Operators born before July 1, 1996, are not required to earn a boating license. If you were born after this date, you are only allowed to drive a boat as long as you have successfully completed a boating safety course, earned a certificate of completion, and have the certificate aboard the vessel while operating it. For those born before July 1, 1996, certification is not required.
Any person born after December 31, 1978, is not legally allowed to operate a personal watercraft, such as a Jet Ski or wave runner unless they receive a boating safety certificate.
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Boat And Watercraft Insurance
Owning a boat can be a lot of fun, but buying boat insurance in Michigan might not be, so we’re a local agent who’s here to help. From the Lake Michigan shores of South Haven, Saugatuck, or St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, to inland lakes in Covert or Bangor, Grand Junction or Pullman and beyond, we’ve served clients across the state in helping them find the best priced options with the coverage that they need.
Why do you need insurance for your boat or personal watercraft?You’ll enjoy the water even more when you’re not worried about the safety of yourself, your passengers or your investment. Here are a few things to consider:
- If you’re in an accident or your watercraft is stolen, it costs money, often a lot of money, to fix or replace it.
- If you or any passengers are injured in an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive.
- If your watercraft is responsible for damage or injury to others, you may be sued for damages.
- Your watercraft also needs protection when it’s on land. Accidents can happen while towing a watercraft or while it’s in storage.
Things to consider and questions to ask your agentHere are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion:
Home policies may provide very limited coverage for personal watercraft. Because this might not be sufficient to cover you in a loss, you may want to consider purchasing a personal watercraft policy to protect yourself and your water vehicle in the event of an accident.
How Much Boat Insurance Do I Need
Beyond any state legislation or binding agreements with your lender or marina, the answer to this question may come down to your individual tolerance for risk. As discussed in earlier questions, some states do have minimum requirements for liability insurance coverage. Check with your state government to see whether you are required to meet a coverage threshold. The amount of boat insurance you may need depends on a number of factors, including the boatâs value, motor size, and age. Like other vehicles, high-performance boats will likely command a higher level of coverage to compensate for the amount of damage they are able to inflict.
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Your Odds Of Being Involved In A Car Accident Also Go Up In The Summer
Now that summer is finally here we hope you have a terrific July 4th holiday and can take time off for car trips with the family.
Unfortunately, the statistical chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident also increase over the summer months as well.
When you take to the road this weekend, please stay safe and keep these statistics in mind:
- AAA Michigan is estimating that between 1.4 and 1.7 million Michigan residents will be embarking on roads over the Fourth of July.
- Thankfully, holiday traffic crash fatalities dropped 50% between 2017 and 2018, according to the Michigan State Polices 2018 Michigan Holiday Traffic Fatalities report.
- Similarly, Michigan Traffic Crash Facts reports that fatal crashes, persons killed and the role of alcohol in those tragedies dropped between 2013 and 2017, according to the 2017 MTCF 5-Year Trends.
Is Boat Insurance Expensive
As is the case with almost anything you purchase, the more research and price comparison you doâthe higher likelihood that you will find the boat insurance quote that is right for you. Here are some tips to ensure that you are getting your moneyâs worth and keeping your costs down:
- Only buy what you need: There are lots of options out there for marine insurance and many of these policies are custom-written. Ensure that you know what you need so you can avoid paying for features that you donât require.
- Agreed value vs. Cash value: In an agreed value policy, you are paid a pre-determined value for the vessel in the event of a total covered loss. With agreed value, the insured and insurer agree on the value of the boat upfront. Most agents would recommend this option for a new or late-model boat. As the boat continues to age, look to potentially switch to a cash value option to save on premiums.
- Take a boater safety course: Almost all insurers offer a discount for boaters that have recently completed an approved boater safety course. Take an in-person class or get your boat safety certification online. Check with your insurance agent to see if a discount is offered for your specific policy.
- Spend on safety gear: Insurance companies may cut you an additional discount for having extra safety features onboard your vessel. Check with your insurance agent to see if you qualify for any additional savings.
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Are There Any Legal Requirements To Operate A Boat
A lot of people dont know this, but Pennsylvania requires persons born after 1982 to complete a brief boating safety course to be legal on the water. If you dont complete the course, you can actually get fined.
Taking the course even if you arent legally required to can actually lower your boat insurance premiums.
Who Is Responsible For Damages That Result From A Boating Accident
After a boating accident, it is necessary to determine who was responsible in order to recover damages. This can be a complicated process depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Medical expenses for injuries sustained in auto accidents are often covered by the Personal Injury Protection medical benefits portion of the victims Michigan No-Fault policy. Because No-Fault insurance does not cover boating accidents, victims must rely on the coverage provided by their health insurance plan, which may not be sufficient.
Therefore, when someone is seriously injured or killed in a boating accident caused by someone elses negligence, the victim and/or the family may seek compensation for their losses by filing a lawsuit against the responsible party. If the plaintiff prevails, the settlement may include economic losses such as property damage, medical bills, and lost wages, in addition to non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Additionally, a boat owner may be able to seek reimbursement from the at-fault party for damage to a vessel or other property, even if no one was injured in the accident.
Accidents that happen on lakes, rivers and other inland waterways are generally subject to state and local laws. However, accidents that occur at sea may be governed by the maritime laws for that jurisdiction.
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