A rider is a provision that adds to
the coverage of a policy for specific
items. In the case of most bass boat
policies, anything easily removed
from a boat must be supported by a
rider to obtain coverage. Boat own-
ers would be best to figure out the
cost of replacing most of the boat’s
gear, and work with the insurer to
make sure it’s covered.
Discrepancies often exist for
those items that are attached to the
boat but can still be quickly removed,
or equipment installed as an after-
market part. A depth finder is a good
example, especially if mounted on a
quick-release bracket. On-board
chargers and shallow-water anchors
can also be questionable.
“some [insurance] companies
only cover items that are factory
installed. Others cover add-ons, but
only if they can’t be quickly
detached,” Garza says, stressing
that each individual policy can be
unique. When discussing coverage
with an agent, he says, “Ask as
many questions as possible, and
write down the answers. Don’t take
your insurance agent’s word as
gospel. Do the research.”
Preparation for Claims
To avoid disputes before a claim
happens, Garza advises taking pho-
tos of your boat when fully loaded
for a trip or tournament to more
accurately gauge the amount of
equipment carried in its compart-
ments. Taking it one step further,
record the number of tackle boxes,
and provide your insurer with an
estimate of the number and value of
lures, as well as rods, reels, rain gear
and any other significant items. If
something happens, you’ll have a
record of what was in the boat.
Additions
In addition to liability and equip-
ment add-on coverage, most marine
policies offer uninsured boater cov-
erage (a must to be truly protected),
as well as separate trailer coverage.
It’s important not to shortchange
yourself here, as more trailer claims
are reported than boat claims thanks
to trailer-backing rookies in parking
lots.
Also consider an on-the-water
towing addition to your policy, which
often only adds a few dollars to the
premium. Just educate yourself to
the exact coverage levels first, as well
as the availability of towboats on
your home waters.
Get Expert Help
Garza’s strongest recommenda-
tion is to seek out an expert.
“I’d recommend going through a
company that specializes in your
lifestyle,” he says.
Examples include United Marine
Underwriters or Charter Lakes Marine
Insurance. These companies, Garza
claims, offer far better and more
comprehensive insurance than those
specializing in home or auto insur-
ance, which might only occasionally
dip their toes into boat policies.
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