Sackrison Insurance Agency | Napa

As we celebrate America and summer, let’s remember to be insurance-smart too.

I want everyone to have a marvelous Fourth of July with friends and family. But remember that three specific risks increase on this particular holiday. So, let’s talk about them, and how you can be prepared.

1. Increased traffic enforcement

First, we all know that beer, wine coolers and other adult beverages are flowing a little more freely on the Fourth of July.

Because of that, law enforcement will be extra diligent to keep us all safe on the road.

So have a designated driver ready after the party or a cab lined up to get you home. A mistake can cost you thousands, including much higher insurance premiums for years to come.

Second, because of the increased enforcement on the roads, you have a much higher chance of hearing those dreaded words... “license, registration, and proof of insurance, please.”

Fortunately, California is one of about a dozen states that allows for digital proof of insurance (like an app on your phone).

But since many of these traffic stops will occur at night, and you’ll be nervous, I’d recommend also having a paper copy of your proof of insurance easily accessible.

2. Increased fireworks risks

California has a “Safe and Sane” fireworks law. However, our local laws in Napa don’t allow for any fireworks.

But that may not stop your friends from buying sparklers in another community and bringing them to your backyard. And it’s hard to tell them to not light ‘em up. But maybe it’s worth the risk to be a party-pooper.

The National Fire Protection Association says that fireworks cause more than 15,000 fires each year.

As much as your insurance agent wants help you if you have a loss due to fire... we’d much rather that you never experience a fire.

Fireworks are fire hazards. So just say ‘no’. It’s the law in Napa, and it’s a safety issue.

3. Increased accidents and injuries

Speaking of fireworks, did you know that “harmless” sparklers are Emergency Room Enemy Number One? Turns out they aren’t so harmless.

Over one-quarter of all fireworks-related ER visits on the Fourth of July are caused by sparklers. That’s more than any other type of fireworks-related injury.

The Fourth of July is a fun time. But it’s also a time of accidents and injuries. As the sergeant used to say on Hill Street Blues: “let’s be careful out there.” None of us want to find out how good our insurance is.

My advice:

In addition to the advice I’ve given above, I’d recommend making a phone call to your local agent to make sure your homeowners insurance has enough liability coverage, including “guest medical” coverage.

As always, if you don’t have a local agent, I’d be happy to answer any questions you have.

It’s almost time to hitch up the boat and head for the lake. Before you do, here are four questions to ask your insurance agent:

1. Am I covered if someone else is using my boat?

That depends. If they are paying you to borrow your boat, your boat policy will almost certainly not cover any losses or liability.

So, don’t rent your boat out without first talking to your agent.

However, many policies cover use of your boat with your permission by friends or family members. But not all of them do.

So, you need to read your policy, especially the exclusions section. You may need to specify by name everyone who may use your boat this season.

One way that may extend coverage to others using your boat could be through an umbrella policy. Talk to your agent about additional coverage that may be provided through an umbrella policy.

2. If I’m in an accident on the way to the lake, who pays for damage to my boat?

This one’s a tricky question. So, let’s look at a few scenarios:

First, you are towing your boat to the lake. You are in a car accident that’s your fault. Your boat and trailer cause damage to another vehicle.

Who pays? Your auto insurance pays, not your boat insurance.

Second, you are towing your boat to the lake. Your trailer detaches from your truck and the unattached boat and trailer hit the car behind you.

Who pays? Your boat insurance pays this time.

Finally, you are towing your empty trailer to a designated parking place after launching your boat. You make a mistake and damage your trailer.

Who pays? Your boat insurance, if you have optional coverage for your trailer.

3. If my boat is wrecked, will I get a new boat to replace it?

Again, that depends.

Many people have an “Actual Cash Value” policy, often called a “Market Value” policy. The reason is that these policies cost less.

But Actual Cash Value policies pay only what the boat was worth at the time of loss.

This means that depreciation takes a huge bite out of the final payment by the insurance company. If your boat is totaled, you likely won’t get enough to purchase a new one to replace it.

However, if you have an Agreed Amount Value policy, you are more likely to get enough money to replace your old boat with a new one at claim time.

4. Are there additional coverages I should consider?

Yes. There are optional coverages available under most boat policies. That’s why talking with your local insurance agent can make a huge difference at claim time.

You may need additional coverage, like an umbrella policy, and not even know it.

Schedule a time right now to meet with an experienced local agent and discuss how you will be using your boat this season.

Your assets will be better protected, and you’ll boating with more peace of mind.