It’s ‘Toy’ Time!

Here in beautiful Michigan, we can find the right weather to use our toys all year round.   Right now, the snowmobiles are going into storage and out are coming things like boats, personal watercraft, campers and all terrain vehicles (ATVs).  But have you changed your insurance coverage?

Many people I know just carry a comprehensive policy on their toys stored for the winter. That way if they’re stolen or damaged, they’re covered.  But as soon as you pull them out of the garage or pole barn, you better make sure you have liability insurance, too.  The minute they leave your property your homeowner’s liability coverage will not extend to them.

For towed or hitched campers, did you know your auto insurance coverage extends to the camper?  Using a buddy’s car or truck to tow it?  Then his coverage is in play, not yours.  Unhitch at a campground and the auto coverage is out of play.  You may need vacation liability coverage if something happens and you’re found liable for damages.  If somebody backs into or hits your camper, you will need to have collision coverage to cover the damage.  Luckily, if a tree falls on it, your comprehensive coverage will take care of that.

If you have a lot of assets, you may want additional personal liability insurance to protect yourself.  Lawsuit settlements are going up and it would be a shame to lose your car, house or other assets because you don’t have enough coverage.  An umbrella liability policy is usually pretty cost-effective.

I’m not an insurance expert, but I’ve seen and heard enough from clients over the years to know that you need to talk to an insurance expert about your particular situation.  My friend Karen McKeen works for Allstate and can explain the various coverages (and their exceptions) to you and even give you a quote for comparison if you like.   Feel free to contact her at:  Karen McKeen, Allstate Insurance  248-667-9399 or email to KarenMcKeen1@allstate.com.  And have some fun out there - safely!

photo courtesy of Toa55/freedigitalphotos.net