Stay Safe: Don’t Let an Accident Ruin Your Fun Out on the Water

April 22, 2019||inPersonal Insurance|boat insurance, personal insurance, personal watercraft insurance, recreational vehicles

What is personal watercraft insurance?

Personal watercraft (known by brand names like Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, or WaveRunners) can be lots of fun on the water. But, like any moving vehicle, it is subject to accidents, and it’s wise to get the proper insurance to protect yourself financially.

Unlike small boats, personal watercraft are not generally covered by homeowners insurance (and in rare cases, they are, but coverage limits are low). Personal watercraft insurance (PWC) is specifically designed to insure these vessels.

What is personal watercraft insurance? Personal watercraft (known by brand names like Jet Skis, Sea-Doos or WaveRunners) can be lots fun on the water. But, like any moving vehicles, they are subject to accidents and it’s wise to get the proper insurance to protect yourself financially.
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711
  • A personal watercraft policy covers you or someone whom you’ve allowed to operate your craft for incidents that result in:
  • Bodily injury to another person.
  • Bodily injury to you that an uninsured watercraft operator causes.
  • Liability—that is, legal costs if you’re sued due to an accident. Most policies also include water sports liability, which covers risks associated with activities such as waterskiing.
  • Property damage—for example, to another watercraft, a boat, or a dock.

Deductibles and liability limits vary by policy and by company. PWC also may cover:

  • Theft of the personal watercraft.
  • Towing if the watercraft is in an accident.

Additional coverage can also be purchased for trailers and other accessories. If you have several personal watercraft, you may qualify for a multi-boat discount on your insurance. Consult your insurance professional about your specific needs.

Personal Watercraft Safety

Jet skis are fun and deceptively easy to use, but many people must realize that personal watercraft can also be dangerous. Each year, they cause thousands of serious injuries.

To safely enjoy your watercraft:

  • Keep appropriate distance from other personal watercraft. Eighty percent of all injuries and fatalities occur when two personal watercraft collide with one another. Because these vessels can travel at a very high rate of speed, to avoid collision, each rider must be able to react to sudden changes. To ensure your safety, stay at least 100 yards behind the vessel in front and no less than 50 yards to one side.
  • Don’t jump the wake of a passing boat. You could misjudge its speed and cause a collision. Or you might end up in the path of traffic from another direction.
  • Stay alert! Be aware of what is going on around you. In addition to other watercraft, steer clear of swimmers, divers, water skiers, and fishermen.

Next steps link: Graduating from personal watercraft to a large vessel? Learn about boat insurance.

Source: Insurance Information Institute

Read Other Blog Posts

Umbrella Insurance

Understanding the Importance of Umbrella Insurance: Why It’s Worth Considering

Most of us already have auto, home, and life insurance—but what about an umbrella policy? While it may seem like extra coverage you don’t need, an umbrella policy can provide crucial protection that goes beyond the limits of your existing insurance. It’s designed to safeguard your assets and give you added peace of mind when life’s unexpected situations arise.
Read more
What to Do When Ice Dams Form A Practical Guide for New England Homeowners

What to Do When Ice Dams Form: A Practical Guide for New England Homeowners

Ice dams can form quickly during New England winters and lead to leaks, interior damage, and costly repairs. Learn what causes ice dams, the early warning signs to watch for, and the safest steps to take if one has already formed. This guide also shares simple prevention tips to help protect your roof and home throughout the winter.
Read more
Carbon Monoxide Safety for Your Home and Your Vehicle

Carbon Monoxide Safety for Your Home and Your Vehicle

Carbon monoxide is a silent winter danger that can affect anyone, whether you’re at home or sitting in your vehicle during a storm. Heavy snow, blocked vents, and improvised heating sources can cause CO to build up quickly without warning. This guide explains the most important do‑nots, safer alternatives, and key precautions to help protect your household, your passengers, and your neighbors during severe winter weather.
Read more
Black History Month Contributions in the Insurance Industry

Honoring Black History Month: Contributions in the Insurance Industry

Honoring Black History Month by highlighting the pioneering Black leaders and entrepreneurs who shaped the U.S. insurance industry. Learn how their efforts expanded access to coverage, promoted financial literacy, and strengthened communities through economic empowerment and generational wealth building.
Read more
Life Insurance Love Insurance

Love Insurance: How Life Insurance Can Be the Best Valentine’s Gift

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love that lasts. Discover how life insurance, or love insurance, can protect your family and provide peace of mind beyond flowers and chocolates.
Read more
Shoveling snow

Snowmelt Damage Prevention Tips

Accumulating water from melting snow and ice—also known as snowmelt —can lead to significant property damage if not managed. It's important to be aware of this risk and take measures to prevent issues. Don’t let snowmelt wreak havoc on your home. Review guidance for snowmelt damage prevention recommendations.
Read more
Side-view mirror

The Defensive Driving Process

To be a defensive driver, it’s important to follow a three-step process: see hazards, determine potential responses, and act in time. Driving in Massachusetts means navigating heavy traffic, narrow roads, construction zones, and unpredictable New England weather. Defensive driving helps local drivers anticipate hazards, reduce accident risk, and protect their auto insurance record.
Read more
Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather: Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Severe winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold. Learn how to prepare your home, protect your vehicle, prevent frozen pipes and power outages, and take practical steps to keep your family safe during harsh winter weather.
Read more
Chimney

Chimney Maintenance Is Essential

A well-maintained chimney is essential for keeping your home safe, as neglected chimneys are a leading cause of fireplace-related fires and carbon monoxide issues. With an estimated 20,000 chimney fires occurring each year in the U.S., routine inspections and cleanings play a critical role in reducing creosote buildup and preventing costly damage. By making chimney care part of your annual home-maintenance plan, you’ll protect your property and ensure your fireplace operates safely all season long.
Read more
PreviousNext

Visit Our Recreational Vehicle Insurance Page

Recreational Vehicle Insurance

Recreation is about having fun. Make sure your fun doesn’t put your future at risk by having the proper protection for any recreational vehicles you own, including boats, motor homes and other vehicles. When purchasing a recreational vehicle, a dealer may offer to provide you with insurance coverage but keep in mind that your overall insurance protection plan is generally built through purchasing a variety of policies. You need to ensure that all your policies have the right limits and protections to work together.