Texas PWC Insurance
Learn how to find the right pwc insurance for you.
Written by
Financial blogger and business owner, Meg Stefanac, has more than 15 years experience working in the financial services industry and enjoys helping individuals make solid financial decisions. Meg has extensive experience writing about insurance and finances and is a key contributor to TrustedChoice.com.
The Lone Star State has more square miles of inland waterways than any other state and the 6th longest shoreline in the country. This gives owners of personal watercrafts, often referred to PWCs, plenty of places to enjoy this recreational pastime. Unfortunately, accidents sometimes happen. To protect your finances as well as the investment you have made in your watercraft, consider purchasing a Texas PWC insurance policy.
When shopping for a PWC policy, you may benefit from the assistance of an independent insurance agent in the Trusted Choice® network. These agents can answer your questions, suggest suitable coverage amounts, and offer you a variety of competitively-priced policies from which to choose. Instead of getting a limited selection, contact a Trusted Choice member agent near you for personalized service. You can be comparing Texas PWC insurance quotes in no time.
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Understanding Personal Watercraft
The state Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) defines a PWC as a type of motorboat that is designed for an operator to sit, stand, or kneel on instead of sitting inside. Popular examples of PWC include Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, and Wave Runners.
PWCs come in four specific model types, among them are:
- Stand-up models: These were the original type of PWC. They tend to be a bit more difficult to operate and less stable than other model types.
- Sit-down models: These are the most popular PWC model type. They are more stable and easier to operate than stand-up models.
- Multi-person models: Ideal for family outings, these PWCs make room for 2 to 4 people. They are the most stable of all PWC models.
- Submersible models: These sleek new models are designed for both surface and submerged operation.
Texas State Laws Pertaining to PWC Operation
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) regulates PWC use on state waters. Some laws enforced by the TPWD include:
- All PWCs must be registered by the state prior to use on any public waterways
- Operators and passengers must wear a coastguard-approved personal floatation device (PFD)
- Anyone born after September 1, 1993 must pass an approved boating safety course prior to operating a PWC
- If the craft is equipped with a kill switch, it must be attached to the operator or the operator’s clothing at all times while operating the PWC
- Children under 13 may not operate a PWD unless under the direct supervision of an adult
- PWC insurance is not required
Why Purchase Texas PWC Insurance?
While the state does not require PWC owners to carry liability insurance, this coverage can prove to be very important. You may be held liable for injuries or damages you cause while operating these watercrafts. If a third party suffers severe injuries, the medical costs for continued care can be quite high.
Additionally, you have likely spent a lot of money on your PWC. If it is damaged, whether by a collision or other means, you may benefit from having coverage to compensate you for your losses.
What Does Texas PWC Insurance Cover?
A very basic Texas PWC insurance policy will provide you with liability insurance. This will provide you with the necessary coverage to compensate third parties for bodily injuries and property loss if you are responsible for a collision while operating your PWC. Liability insurance will cover court costs and legal fees if you are sued for a covered event.
You may also select other coverage options including:
- Property damage insurance: This will provide compensation if your PWC is damaged in an accident, regardless of fault.
- Medical payments coverage: This will provide coverage for any necessary medical care if you or your passengers are injured in an accident, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured and underinsured boater insurance: If you are hit by an uninsured boater or by a hit-an-run boater, this insurance will cover you for property damage and medical costs.
- Towing and assistance insurance: If your PWC becomes disabled on the water and you need assistance, this coverage will reimburse you for the associated costs.
- Wreckage removal insurance: If you are in an accident while operating your PWC, you are responsible for paying for the necessary wreckage removal and fuel-spill clean-up. This can prove quite expensive, but this insurance coverage will handle the costs.
- Comprehensive insurance: This will provide compensation if your PWC is lost or damaged while not in use. Covered events include weather damage, fire, falling objects, vandalism and theft.
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Is Texas PWC Insurance Expensive?
The cost of your PWC policy will depend on many factors including the type of PWC you are insuring, its purchase price, where and how often you use your PWC, where you store it when not in use and your driving history. Most policies can be purchased for under $1 a day.
You may be able to get a reduced price on your PWC insurance by taking advantage of discounts offered by some insurance providers. Discounts can often be found for:
- Passing an approved safety course: These courses are usually free and are a good idea even if not mandatory.
- Having multiple insurance policies with the same carrier: Having your PWC insurance with the same carrier who provides your home or vehicle insurance can often save you a significant amount of money
- Opting for discounted billing methods: You may be able to get a reduced rate by paying your annual premiums upfront instead of monthly or by allowing electronic bill payments to come directly out of your bank account.
Compare Texas PWC Insurance Quotes
Finding a great price on Texas PWC insurance may require some comparison shopping. A local Trusted Choice member agent can save you time by obtaining a rate quotes for you. These independent agents can provide you with policies from a variety of top-rated companies and help you compare their offered coverage.
All agents in the Trusted Choice network have pledged to provide customers with exceptional service and honest, ethical advice. Contact an agent in your neighborhood today to learn more about Texas PWC insurance.