1. Choose Your Motor Carefully
There are now three major types of outboard motors used for boating: two-stroke, four-stroke, and electric. The older two-stroke option is still viable with a good brand and a new or like-new product – but it requires a mixture of oil and gas to run and emits more pollutants.
Four-stroke models are now trending. They are gas motors only and run much cleaner and quieter than their two-stroke counterparts. They are also better for the environment. Electric models run off of battery power and should be fully recharged before you head out to the water.
A new or newer motor will run more reliably, require less maintenance, use less fuel, be better for the environment, and may get you an insurance discount. Also, be sure the motor “fits” the boat (enough hp) and that it is simple enough to use that you won’t make any mistakes that might damage your motor.
2. Take Time To Read The Warranty
All too often, people take the time to investigate every other aspect of their new motor but fail to pay any attention to the warranty. But as manufacturer’s warranties vary greatly from brand to brand, it’s worthwhile to learn how your warranty’s extent and exclusions.
A standard warranty usually covers the motor for 3 to 5 years, while an extended warranty may extend coverage as long as 10 years. However, this cannot replace boat insurance. Warranties won’t cover you if the motor is damaged in an accident or lost in the water. They also won’t cover you if you accidentally misused the motor or (in some cases) if you engaged in boat racing or even in a fishing tournament.
3. Shop For Quality Boat Insurance
Standard boat insurance policies normally cover the boat, motor, trailer, personal liabilities, and medical payments up to certain limits and within specific parameters.
If your outboard motor is lost or damaged while on the water or while the boat and motor are on the boat trailer, it will likely be covered. The fact is, however, that your motor is more expensive than your other boating equipment and more prone to problems. That’s why you might wish to add a rider to your policy that provides additional boat motor insurance coverage.
You can get low-cost boat insurance and still get good protection for your motor. But it’s all a matter of balance. Raising coverage limits will obviously increase premiums, so talking with an agent and getting just the right amount and kind of coverage is crucial.
If you are thinking of buying a new boat motor soon, be sure to research both the motor’s quality and its warranty details. Also, ask a boat insurer how your choice of motor would affect boat insurance premiums and what kind of motor coverage they can provide.
To talk to a boat insurance today about insuring your boat, motor and all, contact Flagler County Insurance Agency for a free, no-obligation consultation and quote!