Washington D.C. PWC Insurance

When enjoying the waterways surrounding Washington, DC, it's crucial to protect yourself in case of an accident.

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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Residents of Washington, DC enjoy a vast array of surroundings. Within a one hour drive, there are a number of waterways to enjoy, including Lake Anna, the Potomac River, and the Patuxent Water Trail.

You can find a number of boat types on the waters around DC, from sport boats and fishing boats, to canoes and jet skis. The majority of boat owners trailer their boats to the nearest waterway, as boating opportunities within the state are limited. All boat owners operating a vessel over 15 horsepower must have a boater education card, and only those 14 and older may ride a jet ski or PWC. Additionally, it is illegal to rent, sell, or lease a watercraft to anyone under 16 years old.

When enjoying the waterways surrounding Washington, DC, it's crucial to protect yourself in case of an accident. Just like a lifejacket, a PWC insurance policy is there to protect you and keep your finances afloat in case of an accident.

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Jet Ski Statistics

  • There were over 30 jet ski accidents in the states surrounding D.C. during 2012.
  • Operator inexperience is the #1 cause of accidents on PWCs.
  • Excessive speed is the #2 cause of accidents on PWCs.

Whether you're an experienced boater, or purchasing your first vessel, it's a wise idea to take a boater education safety course. Just like driving a car on the road, there are rules of the waters when it comes to navigation, right-of-ways, and turning. Knowing how to use your vessel, and being knowledgeable on what to do in an emergency, are an important part of being a responsible boater. There are education courses available online and in person. These courses are required in many states.

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What is PWC Insurance in Washington, D.C.?

PWC insurance is a set of insurance policies designed to protect you from accidents and events that occur on the water. It closely resembles an auto insurance policy, except that it has extra protection for water-specific events. A PWC policy may look like the following:

  • Medical payments: Accidents happen. And when accidents happen on the water, they can get serious, quickly. Medical payment coverage will help pay for any medical costs for you or a passenger associated with an accident.
  • Uninsured or underinsured boater: Unfortunately, not every boater carries insurance. If you're involved in an accident, and the party at fault doesn't have insurance, you may be stuck paying for repairs to your boat. This insurance will cover the damaged caused by the uninsured or underinsured boater.
  • Watersport liability: We live in a litigious society. If you cause an accident on your PWC and cause property damage or bodily injury to a third party, this insurance is designed to pay for damages, medical treatment costs, and/or your defense and any other legal costs.
  • Pollution coverage: Washington, DC has strict fines when it comes to pollution on the water. If you are found at fault for a spill, this coverage will pay for the remediation.
  • Towing and assistance: Stuck on the water? This coverage will pay for a tow to shore.
  • Wreckage removal: Most bodies of water require that, in the event of an accident, you must remove your boat -- even if it's sunk. This is a very expensive endeavor, and this coverage can cover those costs.
  • Accessory coverage: If you trailer your PWC, or have additions or extra equipment such as towables, this coverage will protect those items from damage, theft, or fire.

What Types of PWCs Are Covered?

A PWC insurance policy can cover a number of PWCs, including the following:

  • Stand-up PWCs
  • Sit-down PWCs
  • Racing PWCs
  • High capacity PWCs (such as four-seaters)
  • Submersible PWCs
  • Custom PWCs

How Much Is a PWC Insurance Quote in Washington, DC?

The price of a PWC coverage depends on a number of factors. When searching for a PWC insurance policy, be sure to have the following information available for your agent:

  • Make/Model of PWC
  • Age of PWC
  • Horsepower
  • Any additions/upgrades
  • Your driving record (on and off the water)
  • Your credit score
  • Whether PWC is owned/leased/or financed
  • Where PWC is stored
  • Whether other riders will be using the PWC
  • If PWC has a trailer
  • Where PWC will be used
  • Coverage preferred
  • Deductible preferred

All of these questions will help the insurance agent provide you with accurate PWC insurance quotes. You will also be able to choose which types of coverage you'd like, and get information on recommended coverages.

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Are There Discounts Available on PWC Insurance?

Just like many other insurance policies, there are discounts available on PWC insurance. Be sure to ask about any available discounts, such as:

  • Multi-policy discount
  • New customer discount
  • Loyal customer discount
  • Claim-free discount
  • Lay-up discount (if you only use your PWC during the summer, for example)
  • Military discount
  • Educator discount
  • Industry affiliation discount
  • Boater safety course discount

Many DC insurance companies have discount programs, but they might not be exactly like the ones above. Make sure to ask your agent what kinds of discounts may apply to you.

How Do I Get PWC Insurance in Washington, DC?

Getting PWC insurance is part of being a responsible boater. It's important to have a professional insurance agent by your side to help you get an insurance policy tailored to your individual needs. A Trusted Choice® agent is always available to help suggest coverages, answer questions, or even help file a claim. Contact an agent in your area for more information.

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