(800) 253-1482PWC Insurance in Tennessee
Summary: PWC insurance isn’t required by Tennessee law, but it’s a smart move. Jet Skis are fast and fun, but accidents, theft, and trailer damage can be costly. Many marinas even require insurance before letting you dock. Coverage can start around $100 a year and protects you on and off the water. From medical bills to towing help, a custom PWC policy gives you peace of mind while you enjoy Tennessee’s many waterways! Estimated Read Time: 4 mins
Operating a personal watercraft (PWC), whether a Jet Ski, Sea-Doo, or WaveRunner, on Tennessee's waterways demands responsible ownership, which includes securing appropriate insurance coverage. While the thrill of navigating lakes like Dale Hollow or Percy Priest is undeniable, PWCs, as with all vessels, are subject to operational risks that necessitate financial protection. Understanding the specifics of PWC insurance in Tennessee is critical for protecting you on and off the water.
How Much Is Jet Ski Insurance in Tennessee?
The cost of PWC insurance in Tennessee is determined by various factors, but most policies can cover you from liability for around $100 per year.
Factors, such as the type of PWC you’re operating, your claims history, and bundles, are all looked at by insurance companies when calculating your premium.
The scope of your personal watercraft insurance coverage, such as the inclusion of trailer, gear, and towing protection, alongside your selected deductible, will also dictate the final cost.
Furthermore, operators with multiple PWCs should inquire about potential multi-craft discounts for policies encompassing several vessels.
Key determinants influencing your insurance premium include your operational history and experience, as well as the horsepower rating of your PWC.
To obtain precise personal watercraft insurance quotes, you must provide the insurer with the year, make, model, and hull identification number (HIN) of your PWC.
Full disclosure is required regarding any minor operators and all modifications or upgrades to the watercraft, as undeclared enhancements may not be covered under standard policies.
Finally, documentation of completed boater safety courses should be presented to your insurance agent, as this often qualifies for a reduction in your premium, reflecting a commitment to safe operation.
Watercraft insurance is an affordable way to avoid lawsuits and restore losses involving bodily injury or property damage when accidents happen.
Do You Need Insurance for a Jet Ski in Tennessee?
Placing insurance on a personal watercraft isn’t mandated by Tennessee law, however, the inherent risks associated with their operation make it a smart decision for operators.
The speed, maneuverability, and exposed nature of PWCs on waterways such as Center Hill Lake present considerable potential for incidents, both on and off the water.
Even the best drivers face the risk of accidents, whether it involves a collision on the lake, damage sustained during trailering, or unforeseen incidents during storage.
Theft also poses a tangible risk from leaving your PWC unsecured at docks along the Cumberland River to traveling with your vessel. The threat is real, and adequate coverage is necessary to recover.
From acts of vandalism and submersion to operator or passenger injuries, Jet ski insurance provides a mechanism to avoid bearing the full financial burden of these potential losses.
The costs associated with repairs or replacement following a total loss can be substantial, and are especially heinous when compared to cheap watercraft insurance, which can mitigate these expenses.
Marina Requirements in Tennessee
No matter what state law says, many marinas on popular Tennessee lakes like Douglas and Chickamauga require insurance before they let you dock your PWC.
These requirements protect the marina and give PWC owners peace of mind in case their watercraft is damaged or stolen.
If you want to use the marina, following these rules is usually not optional, meaning you’ll need insurance on your Jet Ski in many cases, regardless of the law.
What Does Jet Ski Insurance Cover in Tennessee?
Insurance for PWCs is specifically tailored to meet the risks these watercraft have, which are unique compared to other types of boats. Some of the common coverages PWC insurance provides are as follows:
- Liability Coverage: Helps pay for damage or injuries if you accidentally hit another boat or someone else.
- Medical Payments: Covers medical bills for you and your passengers if there’s an accident.
- Towing Coverage: Pays for a tow if your PWC breaks down and needs to be taken to a repair shop.
- Personal Belongings: Covers stuff you bring on board, like phones or bags, if they get lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Total Loss Coverage: Gives you money to buy a new PWC if yours is totaled within a certain time frame.
PWC Insurance and Boat Policies in Tennessee: Distinct Coverages
PWCs are fast, small, and a lot of fun, but they also come with some extra risks, and regular boat insurance doesn’t always cover everything for these vessels.
Boats are split into four different classes, and each class represents a size, often with accompanying characteristics, that insurance carriers will look at when determining which coverage is right for you.
While it might seem easy to just add a WaveRunner to your regular boat or auto policy, PWC insurance plans are needed because they have different risks than larger watercraft.
Trailer coverage is also necessary. So, while a Tennessee auto insurance might help while you’re towing to spots like Norris Lake, it often doesn’t cover trailer damage or theft at home.
Getting a separate personal watercraft insurance policy is the best way to make sure you’re fully covered.
To find PWC insurance quotes near you, contact one of our agents to ask how to save by calling the number at the top of the page. We can even help you bundle your boat or homeowners insurance policy and find discounts from top-rated carriers to maximize your savings.
