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

Is your home protected??

Protect your home!
"Winter can be severe throughout many parts of the United States. Here are tips to help you prevent-and deal with-the damaging effects of snow and ice."

Click the link below and find out what to do in case of an ice dam. How to know if there is too much snow on your roof and the steps you should take to remove it. Plus, how to protect your pipes from freezing.
http://image.agent.thehartford.com/lib/fec71578706c057c/m/1/PL-Winter_tips_flyer_final022411.pdf

Winter Driving Tactics

During this time of year, many of us wake up to snow, sleet or freezing rain. Yet, we still need to climb behind the wheel and head to work, school or run errands. During the winter season it is important to keep a couple things in mind when living in this bi-polar weather state!

Always plan ahead
Keep an eye on the weather and see how much it is supposed to snow within the next hour or days ahead. If you are less experienced with navigating slick roads, take extra time before you head out. Staying calm and patient will make your trip go a bit more smooth.

Be on the defense
Consider taking a defensive driver class. Not only will this class come in handy when making the treacherous drive but could give you a discount on your auto policy. It is an inexpensive way to brush up on how to respond accordingly in dangerous driving situations and adverse conditions.

Take Care and Repair
According to Car Care Council, more than 5% of all vehicle accidents result from insufficient vehicle maintenance. Be sure to never skip out on a routine checkup especially during seasons of extreme weather.

Park it
It may sound simple but the best way to keep your car working and not involved in an accident is to not drive it during winter storms. Driving in severe conditions increases your chance of being involved in an accident. It's always best to stay safe at home than risk damage to your car or worse.


Since accidents do happen it is so important to be with an insurance company that will be there for you and your family in an emergency. At CIS we do business with 6 major insurance carriers that are all A/A+ rated with AM BEST. Our companies and claims services will be there for you when the roads get messy and an accident happens.

http://www.cisforyou.com/

UMPD?? What's that??

One term that many people are not familiar with is uninsured motorist property damage, also known as UMPD. This is an endorsement you can add to your policy if you have a vehicle with Liability Only. UMPD covers your vehicle if a driver with out insurance hits you and damages your vehicle. With this coverage you are subject to a deductible (usually $200 or $250) and it runs approximately $2 a month.

It is important to understand if you have this coverage or want this coverage. If your vehicle is Liability Only and you do not have UMPD and a driver with out insurance hits you and totals your vehicle, then you are out a vehicle. However, if you have UMPD and your vehicle is hit and totalled by an uninsured driver, your company will pay to fix or replace your vehicle. With 15% of drivers in Colorado not insured it is imperative to understand if you and your vehicle will be covered in case of an accident.

visit us @ http://www.cisforyou.com/ to get a free quote and make sure you and your vehicles are properly covered.