For many Johnson County families, summer weekends at Hillsdale Lake or Clinton Lake mean pulling kids on tubes, teaching friends to wakeboard, or trying wake surfing behind the boat. It’s also when injuries are most likely. If someone you’re towing gets hurt, knowing how your boat policy responds matters.
Your Towing Coverage Questions, Answered
Does boat insurance cover people I’m towing?
Many boat policies include liability coverage that can respond if you’re legally responsible for an injury to someone you’re towing, such as a tuber, skier, or wakeboarder. Some policies handle towed activities differently, so it’s worth confirming how yours reads.
What about their medical bills?
Medical payments coverage on a boat policy can help with medical expenses for passengers and, on many policies, people being towed, often regardless of fault. Limits and definitions vary.
What if a towed rider hits another boat or a dock?
Liability coverage may help with damage to other people’s property, depending on the facts.
Where does an umbrella fit?
Serious injuries can lead to claims that exceed a boat policy’s liability limits. An umbrella policy can add protection above those limits, as long as your boat meets the umbrella’s underlying requirements.
Safe Towing Habits
- Bring a dedicated spotter to watch the rider at all times
- Follow Kansas rules for towing people, including flag and observer requirements
- Shut off the engine before anyone approaches the swim platform
- Keep plenty of distance from docks, swimmers, and other boats
- Make sure every rider wears a properly fitted life jacket
A Note on Carbon Monoxide
Engine exhaust can build up near the back of a boat, especially when idling. Riders and swimmers should stay away from the swim platform while the engine runs.
Insurance Management Consultants in Johnson County, KS can review your boat liability, medical payments, and umbrella coverage before next season. Policy terms vary. Boaters across Johnson County, KS and the Kansas City area can reach out to Insurance Management Consultants, learn about our agency, or browse our insurance blog.
