When Your Snowmobile or ATV Breaks Through the Ice
We recently looked at the importance of having sufficient insurance on your truck or car if it goes through the ice over a body of water. Today, we will consider how you can protect your snowmobile or ATV, should they break through the ice.
If your recreational vehicle carries physical damage coverage, it would be covered if it sinks. Keep in mind the deductible would apply. Your policy will likely cover the retrieval costs of your recreational vehicle from the water, as well.
When Your ATV or Snowmobile Isn’t Covered
If your ATV or snowmobile doesn’t have comprehensive coverage, you could be responsible for the costs of retrieving your recreational vehicle from the body of water. And, of course, you will incur the loss of the recreational vehicle itself since the water damage will ruin the electrical system and the motor of the RV or snowmobile. You will likely be assessed pollution fines, as well.
Can You Insure Your Ice Fishing House?
You betcha! There are several ways to protect your home from frozen water. The first is to add it to your homeowner’s insurance as a scheduled item. It is assigned a specific value and a separate deductible making this a very affordable option. The contents of the fish house would be subject to your personal property policy deductible. Keep in mind not all companies allow this.
That brings us to your second option. Add it to your auto policy as a recreation trailer. Again, you would list it for a specific value with a comprehensive collision deductible. This is also a very affordable option. As with the first option, contents would not be covered except under your personal property policy.
The Most Important Thing To Keep Safe Is You!
Anyone who ventures onto the ice should follow this advice to stay safe.
- Before heading out, ask about ice conditions and hazards with local experts, such as bait shops.
- Wait until there are at least 4 inches of new, clear ice before walking out onto it.
- Wear a foam life jacket.
- Avoid going out alone. If you do, let someone know where you will be and when you will return.
- Carry ice picks, rope, an ice chisel, and a tape measure.
- Check the thickness of the ice at regular intervals since conditions can change quickly.
- Bring a cell phone or personal locator beacon.
With common sense and precaution, you and your vehicles will stay above water and enjoy a safe season outdoors.
Are You Sufficiently Insured?
Before venturing out on icy lakes this winter, make sure you have the coverage you need. Call Hermann Insurance. We have been a part of the North Branch community since 1965. We want what is best for you. Contact us today!
