As an insurance company, Esurance is highly interested in promoting safety. We also want to help you prevent avoidable accidents on the road and in the water. Read this article to find out how you can keep your vehicle and your boat safe this boating season.
The U.S. Coast Guard counted 4,730 recreational boating accidents in 2009, of which 736 were fatal. Add to that statistic the high number of car accidents that occurred with a trailer in tow and you have yourself a potentially dangerous (and costly) pastime.
While boating is extremely fun, dealing with the ramifications of an accident — possible injuries, property damage, and insurance claims — is decidedly not. So, though we hate to sound like mom, we can't help but urge safe boating and driving this season.
Get ready
Before boating season begins, have your vehicle, boat, and boat trailer serviced. (Chances are, your boat and trailer have been languishing all winter long, so it's wise to make sure that things are in good working order.) Pay special attention to tires, brakes, lights, and turn signals. Also, make sure your trailer and boat have the current registration, licensing, and insurance required for your state.
Don't forget to have a copy of your auto and boat insurance card on hand. (If your vehicle is insured with Esurance, you can print a copy of your insurance ID card anytime from your online account.)
Practice makes perfect
Before you make your debut on the open road, practice driving with your boat in tow in a large, open space. Be especially sure to practice making turns and backing up your vehicle — turning and backing up are an entirely different experience with a boat in tow. Practicing is the best way to increase your comfort behind the wheel and prevent accidents.
If you're a novice boater, consider asking a seasoned pro to help you practice launching your boat into the water. For more tips, safety advice, and info on how to report a boating accident, visit the U.S. Coast Guard's website.
Drive with caution
When you're on the road, follow posted speed limits. Keep in mind that everything done while driving will have to be done slower when you have a boat in tow.
You may also want to stick to the right lanes so faster cars can pass safely. Remember, you'll need to allow additional time for stopping and accelerating, and you'll have decreased visibility with a boat trailing behind.
According to the California Department of Boating and Waterways, when you're towing a boat you should do a check of all your important equipment (like the trailer, hitch, lights, etc.) after 5 or 10 miles. For long distances, perform an equipment check every 100 miles.
Safety first — a floating good time
Safety first: we can't stress it enough. Since alcohol is one of the main factors in fatal boating accidents, don't cruise and drink (no matter how tempting it is to crack open a beer or uncork a bottle of wine). Also, wear a life jacket at all times — even if you can give Michael Phelps a run for his money. In 2009, 84 percent of drowning accident victims didn't wear life jackets.
Practicing these safe boating habits, staying alert on the road and in the water, and ensuring the mechanical functionality of your boat and vehicle will lead to a fun, safe, and enjoyable boating season. So get out there, be safe, and have a floating good time.
For more information and tips on how you can be a safer driver (and boater), visit the Esurance Auto Insurance Learning Center.