Probably one of the oldest types of insurance cover in the world is boat insurance. Under the Marine Insurance Act, a boat is just as liable for insurance as any other type of vehicle. Boat insurance policies, just like vehicle insurance come with an excess except the excess for a boat is usually quite a substantial sum which is done in order to discourage small claims which is often the case with cars. Overall, the only difference between automobile insurance policy and that for a boat is the amount it is covering.
As soon as you become a boat owner in America, most states will require you to have a boat insurance policy in force. In the marine insurance industry, houseboats although generally only moored, are categorized as a pleasure boat together with jet boats, ski boats, sailboats, cabin cruisers and party boats. If you are an owner of a speedboat for example, your insurance premium will be higher than for that of a fishing boat owing to the potential for a larger claim.
Most boat insurance policies should cover your boat, the motor, and the trailer used to transport the boat, but Actual Cash Value boat insurance policies finance replacement costs, minus depreciation at the point of the loss. In the event of total damage, second-hand boat pricing directions and additional funds are used to decide the estimated market rate of the boat. Optional insurance usually includes coverage for reasonable repairs, emergency services to your boat, motor, or boat trailer, and wreck removal. Partial damage repairs on the other hand are calculated by working out the full charge to restore the boat minus deductibles.
A better boat insurance plan is the Agreed Value policy which is where both the vessel owner and the insurance company agree on a value for the boat and should it be written off, then this amount is paid out in full. Another benefit of Agreed value policies is that old items are replaced with new, irrespective of the value of the items being replaced. However, Agreed Value boat insurances policies require a cash value to be given on many onboard items such as sails, outboard motors, dinghies for instance and these will need to be agreed before the policy commences.
Essentially boat insurance covers two distinct areas: that of legal liability and that of damage or loss of property. The liability section covers the owner against claims by a third party if any damage is caused to that person or his property by the insured vessel. Remember to try and find a boat insurance agent with a good reputation of getting the best possible policies for his clients and a good record in claim settlement. Make sure your policy also has provisions for lawful protection, in case one is charged for something that is protected under the boat insurance.
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