Avid boaters want to use their vessels wherever they can. At times, this might mean you have to transport the boat over land before you can get it to the water. Getting the boat where it needs to go will likely take careful driving and the use of a trailer.
If something happens to your boat as you are towing it, you might need to turn to your insurance coverage. Still, to what coverage should you turn? Does your car insurance provide coverage, or do you need more specific boat insurance? Generally, getting boat insurance to protect the vessel specifically is the safer route.
What if Damage Happens to Your Boat?
Let’s say you attach your boat to your car using a trailer. While you are heading to your destination, you get into an accident. Your car, the trailer and the boat each sustain damage. In this situation, your car insurance and your boat insurance might both come in handy.
Your auto collision or comprehensive insurance likely extends to the vehicle damage. It can also usually extend to trailer damage. Keep in mind, however, that you might need to list the trailer on your car insurance policy. Or, in other cases, you might need a specific trailer insurance policy. Ask your agent which option is best for you.
Still, your auto insurance likely will not cover any damage your boat sustains. During a wreck, your boat usually classifies as a possession. Car insurance typically doesn’t cover damage to personal items. Sometimes, your homeowners insurance might cover limited amounts of the boat damage. However, a specific boat policy will likely cover much more substantial damage.
What if the Boat Harms Someone Else?
There’s always a chance that hauling your boat on a trailer could cause a problem. For example, you might misjudge your passing distance, and sideswipe another car. Because the accident was your fault, your auto liability coverage should kick in. This coverage can help the other driver receive payment for their losses.
But, you might face technicalities to covering the trailer and boat with liability insurance. For example, suppose the trailer comes loose from the vehicle and causes an accident. In these cases, some auto insurers don’t cover the damage the separated trailer or boat cause.
So, talk to your insurance agent. Ask them how to augment your boat insurance and auto coverage to contain the most effective protection for hauling the boat. In some cases, total protection might not be possible. However, with attention to detail, you can hit the road with an effective degree of coverage for unavoidable problems.