No matter how experienced you are at yachting and how many precautions you take, accidents are going to happen out on the water.  Even though safety doesn’t happen accidentally, it’s vital that you have sufficient yacht insurance coverage.  The following is a list of 6 yachting safety practices that could help you avoid accidents in the future and having to file a claim with your insurance company.

Back off the accelerator – keep an eye on your speed at all times.  While racing over the open water can be an adrenaline rush, it’s also very dangerous.  In fact, one of the 5 most common causes of yachting accidents is excessive speed.  Past statistics have revealed that nearly 300 accidents on the water were attributed to speeding.  Keep in mind that having yacht insurance does not entitle you to being reckless.

If you haven’t done so already, enroll in a boating safety course – this is the best way to ensure that you are current on safe boating practices.  There are dozens of courses available online.  Just be sure that the course is Florida state approved.  You should also insist that your teenagers enroll in one of these courses if they want you to teach them about yachting.  Plus, this will earn you a discount on your yacht insurance.

Keep an eye on those traveling with you – especially where they are sitting.  This helps to reduce the risk of capsizing or someone falling overboard.  These two mishaps are responsible for 50% of all yachting fatalities.  Never allow passengers to sit where they’re not supposed to and by all means, don’t overload your vessel.

Make sure everyone has a life jacket – this is just common sense.  Unfortunately, not everyone heeds this safety precaution.  There should be a life jacket available for every individual on board.  Furthermore, children under the age of 13 must wear theirs whenever the yacht is moving.  If you have to file an accident claim with your yacht insurance provider, the provision of life jackets is a plus in your favor.

Preventative maintenance is a must – inspect your yacht thoroughly at the start of every yachting season.  Whether you do this or hire a professional, it’s the only way you’ll know that you’re ready to take your vessel out on the water.  Furthermore, make sure you’re GPS and emergency radio are functioning properly and that everything is well-stocked.  Be sure to keep all family members and friends aware of these issues.

No drinking if you’re in charge – drinking while boating is just as illegal as drinking while driving.  When you’re in charge, you’re responsible for your vessel and the equipment required for its operation.  Most importantly, you’re responsible for anyone who is on board with you.  The bottom line is that it’s not worth the risks involved. If there is an accident and you are found to be responsible due to being inebriated, it can quickly become an expensive settlement.

Call 1-800-585-1665 today to request a quote from InsureAnyBoat.com