Is Boat Insurance Required in South Carolina?

Boat insurance is not required in South Carolina. However, it’s a great investment to keep you and your property protected. While boat insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense, the reality is that it will provide vital protection when you need it most.

Boat owners must register their boats with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources before they can take to the water. This registration costs $20 for new and never registered boats, according to the DNR.

Why is Boat Insurance Helpful?

While boat registration is mandatory, boat insurance in South Carolina is not required by law. However, it’s important to understand that if you are involved in an accident or suffer property damage while operating your boat, you may be held liable for the costs of any damages incurred. That’s why boat insurance is so critical—it will pay for repair costs, medical bills, and other expenses associated with an unfortunate accident.

Boat insurance policies are available in both comprehensive and liability-only plans. Comprehensive policies provide the most protection and typically cover repairs to your boat, damage caused to another person or their property, fire and theft, as well as medical payments. Liability-only policies are much more affordable but provide less coverage—typically covering only property damage caused by the policyholder while operating their boat.

Other Boating Guidelines to Follow

Boat owners also must also take steps to ensure they follow all other applicable state laws when they take their boat out on the water. They need a USCG-approved life jacket for all boat passengers, registration numbers and valid decals displayed, and proper safety course completion. Additionally, they cannot operate boats under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Boating safety is an important factor for those who take to the waters in South Carolina. Knowing what safety equipment is required, rules of the waterways and general safety tips are key to staying safe while out on the water. All motorized boats must carry a fire extinguisher, life jackets, navigation lights, whistle or horn and a distress flag. These items provide the necessary safety if an emergency arises. PWCs must have a lanyard switch attached to the operator at all times, ensuring that the engine will shut off in case of injury or accident.

If you own a boat in South Carolina and are in need of insurance coverage, be sure to contact an experienced boat insurance provider who can help you find the right policy that meets your needs. The right boat insurance policy can help you avoid costly repair bills or medical fees, and it’s worth considering to ensure you stay safe and secure while on the water.

While boat insurance is not required by law in South Carolina, it is a wise investment to protect yourself against financial setbacks and ensure you remain safe while out on the water. Contact a trusted insurance provider today to learn more about your coverage options and to get started on the right policy for you.