Nationwide Insurance Offers Tips for Protecting Boating Investments
Boaters can shore up the value of their favorite power toy with these tactical tips for safeguarding lives and equipment
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 15, 2007
Contacts:
Kathryn Hampton 614-677-2296
hamptonk2@nationwide.com
Liz Christopher 614-249-7705
christe1@nationwide.com
Columbus, Ohio– Nationwide Insurance reminds first-time boaters and seasoned sea dogs alike that National Safe Boating Week (May 19-25) is the perfect time to sharpen one’s marine safety I.Q. According to the company’s recent annual America at Play survey, 92% of boat owners already place strong emphasis on operating their boat safely, a higher proportion than any other group of powersport enthusiasts.
“We applaud boaters for leading the way in safety awareness, but we know that they also share our goal of 100% safe lakes and waterways. That’s why we encourage all boaters to revisit safe boating practices annually by signing up for a new boater safety or refresher course,” advises Bill Windsor, Associate Vice President of Safety at Nationwide.
With safety always a top concern, Nationwide also offers the following tips designed to ensure boat owners can enjoy their boating investment for many more nautical miles:
• Register your boat. Registration requirements vary by state, so
it’s important to find out what’s required in your area.
• Get certified. Find out what the laws are for boating
certification and licensing in your state. Nationwide has discounts
available to customers who complete an approved safety course.
• Ensure You’re Insured. Make sure your insurance covers waterway
towing and roadside service when you are trailering.
• Trailer Safely. A majority of boat owners pull their watercraft
on a trailer. Remember, the stopping distance is shorter, the turning
radius is wider, and the blind spot is larger when towing a boat.
• Check Trailer Tires. Improper inflation can affect how a
vehicle steers. If your tires have been immersed while launching your
boat, the bearings should be inspected and greased.
• Make a Float Plan. Each time you launch, let someone know the
details of where you are going and how long you will be gone. In case the
unexpected happens, such as a breakdown, help will be able to find
you.
• Protect the Extras. Take care to insure additional property,
such as fishing equipment, stored on your boat. Your policy should cover
these extras.
• Store Your Boat. Many owners store their boats on a trailer.
Buy a tarp to protect your boat from weather damage.
To learn more about boat insurance or personal watercraft insurance or to find an agent, visit www.nationwide.com.
About Nationwide Insurance
Nationwide, based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest diversified
insurance and financial services organizations in the world, with more
than $160 billion in assets. Nationwide ranks #104 on the Fortune
500 list. The company provides a full range of insurance and
financial services, including auto, motorcycle, boat, homeowners, life,
commercial insurance, administrative services, annuities, mortgages,
mutual funds, pensions and long-term savings plans. For more information,
visit www.nationwide.com.
Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Nationwide Insurance Company of America. Nationwide Lloyds and Nationwide Property & Casualty Companies (in TX). Home Office: Columbus, Ohio 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Nationwide, the Nationwide framemark, and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2007 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.
