Boat Insurance in Washington

With so many residents and visitors using Washington's waters, it's no surprise that boating accidents happen.

Written by Jessica Huneck
Written by Jessica Huneck

Jessica Huneck is an insurance writer from TrustedChoice.com. She began her writing career in 2011 and has since earned herself a bachelor's degree in English writing.

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Washington has a number of great watersport opportunities, including 453 sites operated by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. From ocean access to lakes and rivers, Washington is one of the most water-friendly states in the nation.

With such a large percentage of residents and visitors using Washington's waters, it's no surprise that boating accidents happen. Boating accidents can get serious quickly, since many of Washington's coastal areas have dangerously cold water. It's essential to be prepared for a boating accident, and one very important way to be protected is to have boat insurance covering you and your vessel in Washington.

Contact a local independent insurance agent to find the best insurance plan in your area. You tell us what you’re looking for, and our technology will recommend the best agents for you. Any information you provide will be sent to only the agents you pick. We do not sell to third parties.

Boating Statistics in Washington

  • There were 105 boating accidents during 2012.
  • On average, 25 people die per year in boating accidents in Washington.
  • Over 90 percent of those involved in boating accidents in Washington have no boater safety training or education.
  • A boater safety education card is required for anyone 40 years of age and younger if they will be operating a vessel 15 hp or over.

Since the state of Washington has a huge population of boaters, they also have strict laws and list of required equipment. Before hitting the water, check the laws and required equipment in your area. A boat insurance policy acts much like a fire extinguisher. It may seem like it's unnecessary, however, when an accident or disaster occurs, it may prove to be invaluable.

boat

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What is Boat Insurance in Washington?

Boat insurance is a group of policies put together in order to offer you coverage and protection from some of the most common occurrences that can hamper a good time on the water. A typical boat insurance policy in WA may resemble the following coverages and protections:

  • Bodily injury liability: If you are at fault for an accident while on the water, this insurance can help cover the medical expenses of the injured parties.
  • Property damage liability: This coverage goes to help cover damages you cause to another person's vessel or property.
  • Physical damage: Physical damage coverage is designed to cover damages to your vessel and trailer.
  • Comprehensive: Much like auto insurance coverage, this insurance typically covers "everything other than collision." Lenders will require this coverage if a loan is involved to purchase the boat.
  • Uninsured/underinsured boaters: If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured/underinsured boater, this coverage can help provide the funds necessary to repair your vessel or pay for medical costs.
  • Fuel spill/wreckage clean-up: Most water bodies require you to remove a vessel that has been involved in an accident or has sunk. Additionally, if you're found at fault for a fuel spill, you must pay for rehabilitation of the water. Both of these instances can prove costly, and this coverage is designed to cover those costs.
  • Equipment coverage: Many boaters carry expensive equipment on their boat, whether it's fishing gear, skis, or inflatables. Equipment coverage can extend your coverage to these items.
  • Towing coverage: This coverage can help you get a tow to shore if your boat is inoperable.

What Types of Boats Can Boat Insurance Cover?

Boat insurance can cover the vast majority of vessels. Below is a list of some of the most common boat types that boat insurance can cover:

  • Canoe
  • Kayak
  • Rowboat
  • Jon boat
  • Fishing boat
  • Ski boat
  • Paddleboat
  • Speed boat
  • House boat
  • Pontoon boat

This list is not exhaustive, but gives you general parameters on which boats can be covered. If you have a boat not included in this list, you most likely can get coverage. Be sure to talk to an agent about your boat in order to find out which coverages are available.

How Much Will a Boat Insurance Quote Be in Washington?

On average, boat insurance can cost anywhere from $300-500 per year. However, there are many factors that contribute to the final cost. When you are shopping for boat insurance quotes in WA, make sure to be prepared to answer the following:

  • Type of boat
  • Horsepower of boat
  • Where boat will be stored
  • Where boat will be used
  • If boat will carry passengers
  • If others will drive the boat
  • Your driving record (on the water and off)
  • History of claims
  • Any equipment you wish to cover
  • Desired deductible
  • Desired coverages

All of these factors, plus many more, will be used to get you the best coverages possible at the best price available.

boat

Save on Boat Insurance

Our independent agents shop around to find you the best coverage.

Are There Discounts Available on Boat Insurance in WA?

There are many discounts available on boat insurance policies, but the amount you can save depends on your individual situation. Below is a list of the most common discounts available:

  • New customer discount
  • Loyal customer discount
  • Lay-up discount (if you only use the boat part of the year)
  • Paid-in-full discount
  • Good credit discount
  • Claims-free discount
  • Multi-policy discount

Each insurance company offers its customers different discounts, so be sure to ask about any discounts you may not be aware of.

Get Covered with Boat Insurance in Washington

Having insurance on your boat is an important part of being a responsible boat owner. When shopping online for quotes, having a professional by your side to help you get the best coverage can offer your peace of mind, and simplify the process. Contacting an independent insurance agent is the best way to help you find coverages, suggest discounts, or even help you file a claim.

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