Kentucky PWC Insurance
Find the right pwc insurance policy for you.
Written by
Ann Herro has been writing about insurance and employee benefits for over 15 years. She has covered topics as easy as insuring a car, and as difficult as transparency in healthcare costs.
During the summer, lounging by a body of water is many American’s dreams of relaxation. Kentucky residents have the advantage of being close to a freshwater body year-round, and when summer arrives, people clamor for the water. Whether you’re swimming in Lake Cumberland or boating on Kentucky Lake, always remember that safety comes first. Wear a life vest, and don’t operate any watercraft while under the influence of alcohol. If you have a personal watercraft (PWC), one way to protect yourself is to get a comprehensive Kentucky PWC insurance policy.
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Kentucky Boating Laws
While the state doesn't require you to purchase PWC insurance, it's a very good idea. Each year, PWCs are involved in boating accidents. So protecting yourself against liability risks alone is a good reason to purchase a policy, not mention that it helps pay for the repair and related medical expenses. Remember to adhere to these requirements:
- PWC operators are required to take a boater safety education course.
- You must carry the boater education certificate with you at all times.
- If the authorities stop you and you are without your certificate, they could fine you.
- To operate a PWC with 10 HP or more, you must be at least 12 years old.
- Anyone aged 12 to 17 who has not completed an education program must ride with an adult who has taken the course.
- The boater education certificate is valid in 45 other states.
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Types of PWCs and Associated Risks
Many people refer to personal watercraft as a Jet Ski, Sea-Doo or Wave Runner, but these are actually just popular brand names. There are the three main forms of PWCs that you’ll see on the ocean or in a lake:
- Sit down: This type seats two people. Some models can gain speeds close to 100 mph.
- Multi-person: This PWC can seat up to four people. Without the right number of people, it’s easy to lose stability and flip the PWC.
- Stand up: This type carries one rider who must stand up in the vehicle.
The Importance of Liability Coverage
As PWCs have increased in popularity, congestion on the waterways has also increased. It’s important to know that if you cause an accident, you’re responsible for all property damage and bodily injuries. Your homeowners policy may or may not cover this form of liability, so make sure you have Kentucky PWC insurance. Some policies exclude coverage related to PWCs because of the increased risk.
Even minor injuries and property damage can cost thousands of dollars. Relying on an insurance policy to provide peace of mind will also prevent you from having to cover those costs out of your own pocket. Make sure your liability limit on the Kentucky PWC insurance policy matches that of your homeowners insurance. If you already have umbrella coverage, ask your independent agent if it will also cover your PWC. Comprehensive coverage is the key to working through difficult situations like a PWC accident.
Other Coverage Options
In addition to liability coverage, you may want additional coverage that protects you financially. Depending on your PWC and its use, you may not need as much coverage as you think. On the other hand, and more commonly, you probably need more coverage than you have right now. An independent agent can help you evaluate your options:
- Property damage coverage: Covers damage to or loss of property, and legal liability for damage caused to other people's property
- Medical payments coverage: Covers payments for medical or funeral expenses due to an accident
- Pollution coverage: Covers property loss and liability arising from pollution-related damage
- Wreckage removal coverage: Pays for reasonable costs you incur for any attempted raising, removal or destruction your PWC's wreckage
- Accessory coverage: Covers equipment, devices, accessories, enhancements and changes to the vehicle
- Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage: Pays for damage caused by an uninsured/underinsured boater
Make Sure You're Covered
If the price is a major concern, simply inform your independent agent. Your agent can compare multiple Kentucky PWC insurance quotes to find one that doesn’t break your wallet.
It doesn’t take long to get complete Kentucky PWC insurance coverage, so contact an agent today to get your coverage.