August is the Season of Boat Insurance Claims:
3 Tips to Help Ensure Yours Goes Smoothly
ALEXANDRIA, VA – It may be the 'dog days of summer,' which for the ancient Greeks or Romans meant catastrophe. And barring any hurricane activity, August is also the peak season for recreational boat insurance claims. In an effort to prepare boaters for a potential claims experience and help save time, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) offers three tips that can help boaters get the boat back on the water sooner after a claim.

1. Don't wait. If you get in an accident, notice a theft, or see other damage, always call your insurance company as soon as practically possible. If you are on the fence about whether you may want to file a claim or not, it's still a good idea to call your insurer immediately. Letting your boat insurer know quickly can help speed the claims process later as they will already have basic information on file. Also ensure your current insurance company offers 24/7 claims reporting.


2. Be photo happy: If you have an accident, take pictures. Lots of them. They can help support swift processing of your claim by your boat's insurance company. Many insurers make it easy to electronically send in photos of damage and offer free Apps. It also pays to take photos of your boating equipment and personal effects. In the event of a loss, they'll prove ownership and help to establish value.


3. About that estimate: The major task for the boat owner is to get an estimate of the damage. It's always good to know which boatyards, marinas or boating service providers are best in your area, so keep tabs. Word of mouth is one good way to know. Another is to check for credentials (ABYCCertified Technicians, manufacturer certifications). Having an established relationship with a yard will also help you get to the head of the line so you can get your estimate more quickly. "Know where you would want to take your boat now," said BoatUS Vice President of Claims Rick Wilson. "It will cut down on the amount of time it takes to get an estimate and help speed your claim."

The marine insurance specialists at BoatUS (800-283-2883) can help you review your current policy. Free quotes are also available at BoatUS.com/insurance.
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About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS):

Celebrating more than 50 years, BoatUS is the nation's largest organization of recreational boaters with more than a half-million members. We are the boat owners' voice on Capitol Hill and fight for their rights. We are The Boat Owners Auto Club and help ensure a roadside trailer breakdown doesn't end a boating or fishing trip before it begins. When boats break down on the water, TowBoatUS brings them safely back to the launch ramp or dock, 24/7. The BoatUS Marine Insurance Program gives boat owners affordable, specialized coverage and superior service they need. We help keep boaters safe and our waters clean with assistance from the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. Visit BoatUS.com.

Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com