Boat Owners Wanted

BOAT OWNERS WANTED

Hey boat owners, now that your boat is de-winterized and summers right around the corner it is important to make sure your boat and loved ones are covered while out on the lake this summer.

UNDERSTANDING WATERCRAFT INSURANCE

Insuring a boat is very different from insuring a car or home. Even though many homeowners’ policies allow you to add a boat the policy, it may not be the best decision for you and your watercraft. When having a specialized boat policy many coverage’s automatically come with the policy that would not be covered under a home owner’s policy. For example, the cost to replace lost or damaged fishing gear, emergency on-water towing and fuel-spill cleanup.

SPECIALIZED PROGRESSIVE COVERAGES

*Total Loss Replacement-replaces boat with brand new one

*Disappearing Deductibles- deductibles reduce by 25% at each renewal if claim free

*Wreckage Removal Coverage

*Medical Payments- includes coverage for water-skiers

*Pet Injury coverage- policy includes this coverage for free. Pays up to $1,000 toward veterinary bills and if pet dies as a result of accident Progressive provides a $1,000 death benefit.

DISCOUNTS

You may be eligible numerous discounts when having a separate boat policy.

*Homeowner discount

*Multi-policy discount

*Original owner discount

*Safety course discount

*Paid in-full discount

*Responsible driver discount

CLAIMS

Another vital reason to have a specialized boat policy is in the event of a claim. Companies that provide separate watercraft policies they also provide specialized claims representatives which can be crucial after an accident.

WHY GO INDEPENDENT

Unlike “captive” agents who only represent one company, independent agents represent several. When discussing what you want/need for your watercraft this summer an independent agent can offer a variety of coverage’s and suggest new coverage’s that will meet your changing needs. At CIS we can provide a combination of price, coverage and service that’s right for you.

Call us today @ 1-888-265-6467 for a free watercraft quote!

De-Winterizing Your Boat for the Summer!

Don’t get stuck at the dock with your boat not able to start! With summer right around the corner and the beautiful weather Colorado is experiencing, chances are boat owners are itching to get out on the lake. It is important to take a few vital steps in “de-winterizing” your boat before you call up your friends and head to the lake!

OIL

If you did not change the oil when you winterized your boat now is the time to do it.

BATTERY

If batter Is corroded then wipe it clean. Also be sure to know if your battery takes water, if so, fill it up. Always check the volts and amps with a battery tester to make sure it has some juice. If the battery is charged and still no juice then it may be time to buy a new battery for your boat.

COOLING

If you drained the cooling system before you stored the ole’ boat for winter then be sure to fill it back up. Always check the hoses for cracks too.

FUEL FILTER

In the winter the hoses can become dry and crack. Check the hoses and be sure to change the fuel filter.

BELTS

If you can push the belts more than slightly down then you need to tighten the belts. If belts are not tight enough they will wear faster and chances are higher that they will begin to slip. If belt has a black soot  somewhere in the vicinity of the pulley then it is a sign of a worn belt and it may be time to get a new one.

OTHER AREAS TO CHECK

*change spark plugs

*check power steering/cables

*replace the drain plug

*inspect the prop

*inspect rudder and shafts

*anchor is on board

*check the fire extinguisher expiration date

* * Make sure life vests and personal flotation devices are on board.

Now that you know how to get your boat ready for the lake it is just as important to be properly covered in case of an accident. Visit our blog next week to understand what boat/watercraft insurance covers and how you can save money!

Work Cited

Bostain, Julie. (n.d.). De-winterizing your boat . Retrieved from http://waterski.about.com/od/boatmarineengines/a/dewinterize.htm