Now you finally purchased that jet ski, so now what? It isn’t as simple as putting it in the water and going off riding, you know. Jet skiing is a very exhilarating, but potentially dangerous sport. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt. There are jet ski models that can go as fast as 80+ miles per hour on the water and at that speed the water is just as hard as pavement and can do just as much damage to you and others, if in an accident.
It is important to remember there are techniques and skills you must learn first in order to attain the maximum amount of enjoyment and safety on your jet ski.
- Take a Boaters Safety Course – This requirement varies by state, but is a good course to take regardless to understand the “Rules of the Water”.
- Minimum Operator Age – Most states will recommend a minimum age of 16. Keep this in mind when letting children operate or ride the jet ski.
- Review All Owners Manuals – Read and study all of the materials supplied with your jet ski. Become familiar with all of its features prior to riding.
- Wear a Life Jacket – It may not be cool looking, but this is mandatory in ALL states.
- Always Stay Alert – This is rule 101 in boating safety. Always be aware of your surroundings for there could be other boaters, swimmers or divers in your general area.
- Wear Your Lanyard – Also mandated in ALL states, this safety device is worn around your wrist and is attached to the kill switch on the handlebars. In the event you fall off, the motor will be turned off and can be reached within swimming distance.
- Don’t Be Riding After Sunset – It is illegal to ride between sunset and sunrise for jet skis do not have running lights and cannot be seen by other boaters.
- Just Play It Safe – Use good sense and if something seems risky, do not attempt it for it probably is.
- Get It Insured – If you have a loan on the jet ski, the bank will require that you insure it. Otherwise, it is your own discretion whether or not you purchase jet ski insurance. Do keep in mind however if you get into an accident you are personally liable for any injuries and/or damage(s) if you are found at fault.
Here at Donald J. Medeiros Insurance Agency our goal is to try to help our viewers by suggesting solutions for all insurance needs. By no means can we address each reader’s specific concerns in every incident. So, we strongly advise to check with an insurance representative to address your specific needs. However, you can also contact us for any questions or concerns and we will be happy to help you. We are able to offer a complete line of personal & commercial insurance products for all of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire.
Come visit us at www.donmedeirosinsurance.com or give us a call at 508-678-1271. We look forward to hearing from you! If you have a Facebook account, fan us at http://www.facebook.com/donmedeiros.
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