There are plenty of watercraft liability mistakes boaters must avoid when they are out on the open water. Boating is a fantastic pastime, but it comes with some severe responsibilities to ensure your watercraft’s and its passengers’ safety. Boat owners and operators should commit to completing the boating education course as required by their area, but the learning curve to become proficient on the water goes beyond the basics.
The Watercraft Liability Errors to Watch Out For
Even experienced boat owners put themselves at risk of watercraft liability issues due to simple mistakes. Here are some common mistakes and some steps to avoid making them.
Inattention Issues Lead to Watercraft Liability
The most severe boating accidents can occur because of the most innocent actions. Ignoring your surroundings can cause you to miss “No Wake” signs, misjudge the dock’s position, miscalculate the water’s depth, or fail to notice or yield to another watercraft. You could prevent these problems by putting cell phones away and avoiding alcohol consumption. It will help you focus when piloting the vessel. If you find yourself in a confusing, unclear, or unusual situation, reducing your speed is always a great idea to give yourself more time to take in and process your surroundings.
Neglecting Required Maintenance
This mistake may seem minor but can have expensive consequences, particularly with the watercraft’s propulsion system. Regular maintenance is also vital to comply with your watercraft liability policy. Avoid missing your required maintenance by creating a schedule that includes all the necessary checks and fixes, and ensure you stick to the schedule.
Forgetting the Drain Plug
It is a recurring mistake among experienced boat owners, primarily if you use a trailer to transport your boat and remove the boat’s plug-in between trips. It seems like a normal issue, but you are in trouble if you get out on the water with an unplugged drainage hole. Create a visual reminder to replace the drain plug, such as tying it to the steering wheel or clipping it to the boat key.
Engine Starting Issues
If you start your boat’s engine without water, you can destroy the impeller in less than a minute. If you attempt to start the engine without putting the boat in neutral, the engine will not crank, sometimes leaving you scratching your head. To avoid problems with starting the engine, consider creating a laminated checklist posted or stashed near the steering wheel for reference every time you go on the water.
Lack of Preparation Leads to Watercraft Liability
The responsibility of boat ownership and operation requires you to prepare every time you go out on the water. Ensure your yacht insurance policy is up to date. Check the gas to make sure you have enough. Monitor the marine weather forecast before departing the dock to ensure high winds or rough waters do not take you by surprise. Finally, plot your course and ensure you have adequate and reliable navigation instruments on board to stay aware of the situation.
These issues may seem like simple mistakes to avoid when boating, but they are essential to safety. Minding your surroundings and preparing for the worst can help you to avoid watercraft liability issues and ensure enjoyable adventures all season long!
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
