What to Do After a Boat Accident
What if you’ve hit another boat? You’ll need to file an insurance claim, but first you’ll need to stay calm and alert.
Check for injuries and if someone is injured, call 911 for help. Then move yourself and any passengers out of harm’s way.
Do you have liability insurance as a B.C. boat owner?
Liability insurance for your B.C. boat helps protect you financially if you injure or cause the death of someone or cause damage to another person’s boat or property while you’re operating your boat.
It’s recommended that you have $3 million in liability insurance coverage as part of your marine insurance policy to protect yourself as a boat owner in British Columbia.
Even though boat insurance isn’t legally required in B.C., make sure you’re protected on the water with boat insurance.
Here’s a guide to get you through the aftermath of the accident and the claims process:
1. Ensure safety
• Check for injuries: If there are any injuries, call for medical assistance immediately.
• Move to safety: If possible, move both boats to a safe area to prevent further damage.
2. Exchange information
• Details: Exchange names, contact information, and insurance details with the other boat owner.
• Witnesses: If there are any witnesses, get their contact information.
3. Document the incident
• Photos and videos: Take photos and videos of the damage to both boats, the accident scene, and any other relevant details.
• Notes: Write down the date, time, location, and a description of what happened. Include any relevant weather or water conditions.
4. Report to authorities
• Local Authorities: Depending on the severity of the accident, you may need to report the incident to local maritime authorities, police, or the coast guard.
• Accident Report: Some areas require a formal accident report to be filed.
5. Contact your insurance company
• Notify Insurer: Contact your boat insurance company promptly to report the accident.
• Provide Information: Have all of your collected information ready, including details of the accident, photos, witness contacts, and the other boat owner’s information.
6. Complete claim forms
• Forms: Fill out any claim forms provided by your insurance company.
• Supporting documents: Attach all supporting documents, such as photos, witness statements, and the accident report.
7. Cooperate with the adjuster
• Inspection: An insurance adjuster may need to inspect the damage. Cooperate fully and provide any additional information requested.
• Estimates: You may be asked to get repair estimates from approved service providers.
8. Follow up
• Regular updates: Stay in touch with your insurance company to get updates on the status of your claim.
• Keep records: Maintain a record of all communications related to the claim.
9. Settlement
• Approval: Once the claim is approved, follow the insurance company’s instructions for getting the repairs done.
• Payment: Depending on your policy, the insurance company will either pay the repair shop directly or reimburse you for the expenses.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your B.C. boat insurance claim is handled smoothly and efficiently.
As a B.C. boat operator, do you know about Actual Cash Value vs. Agreed Value Coverage?
Actual cash coverage covers you for the value of your boat at the time of loss, less depreciation.
An agreed value policy honours the value of your boat at the time the policy was written. Many boat owners choose an agreed value policy for peace of mind.
Western Financial Group offers competitive pricing to get you B.C. boat insurance at the best value for you.
