The most wonderful time of the year for boaters is at hand! Spring is here and with it, time to set sail on open waters and enjoy your personal watercraft with family and friends.
Traveling with your watercraft can come with its own special concerns and certain techniques can help make sure everyone is safe and secure. And advice from seasoned boat owners can make your life easier and your boating experience top-notch.
There are a few things to remember when you are towing your boat behind your vehicle:
- Make sure your automobile can handle the added weight of the boat and its trailer. You can find information on your vehicle’s towing capacity in your Owner’s Manual.
- Be sure your boat trailer is properly attached before beginning your travels.
- The old adage ‘practice makes perfect’ can be applied to driving with an attached load. Make sure you are comfortable parking and reversing with the trailer attached. Begin driving down quiet streets to make sure you have a handle on the extra length and weight your boat adds.
- When driving, be sure to leave ample room between you and the vehicle in front of you, make wider turns given your added length and drive at a slower speed since the added weight behind you will make it harder to stop suddenly.
While you are heading to waters known or unknown, you may need to park your boat and its trailer overnight. You can take precautions to help prevent theft or vandalism while it may be unattended:
- Using locks is a recommended safety precaution. Some examples of locks that can be used are engine locks, cabin deadbolts, chains around the tires, trailer hitch locks, fuel cap locks or specifically designed wheel locks that can be used to prevent the theft of your watercraft.
- Technology can also help you keep track of your boat. Electronic cell phone alerts can be used as well as satellite tracking systems. Some security companies even offer microdots that can be fixed to outboard motors and the hull itself in order to help track and identify your watercraft. Displaying the security stickers of these products can also deter potential theft.
Despite all precautions taken, accidents and claims can happen, so make sure your personal watercraft is properly covered by reaching out to your insurance broker. Unica Insurance offers All Risks coverage for your pride and joy featuring added benefits such as towing expenses and funds for overnight hotel stays should a claim leave you stranded. Tailored coverage provides you with the confidence to enjoy your watercraft this time of year.
Happy boating!
