Is Boat Insurance Required in Utah?

Utah is home to some of the most beautiful lakes and rivers in the country, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy motorboats, personal watercraft (PWC), or sailboats, there’s no shortage of opportunities for adventure on Utah’s waterways. However, one question that many boat owners ask is: Is boat insurance required in Utah?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into Utah’s boat insurance requirements, the types of coverage available, and why even if it’s not legally required in all cases, getting boat insurance is a wise decision for any boat owner.

Is Boat Insurance Legally Required in Utah?

The short answer is: Yes and No. Utah’s boat insurance laws vary depending on the type of watercraft you own. Here’s a breakdown of when boat insurance is required and when it isn’t.

1. Motorboats and Personal Watercraft (PWC)

For motorboats and personal watercraft, Utah requires liability insurance. The law mandates that all motorboats with engines over 50 horsepower, as well as personal watercraft like jet skis, carry liability insurance. You can find more detailed information on this requirement on our dedicated page about Boat Insurance | The Insurance Pros - Boat insurance Utah.

2. Non-Motorized Boats and Boats with Engines Less Than 50 HP

For boats that don’t have motors or have engines with less than 50 horsepower, insurance is not required. This includes smaller sailboats, canoes, and kayaks. However, just because it’s not required doesn’t mean you should skip out on insurance entirely. We recommend reviewing Coverage Options and How to Choose the Right Limits.

3. Non-Resident Boat Owners

If you’re a non-resident visiting Utah with a motorboat, you’re not required to have boat insurance unless you stay for more than 90 days or your home state also mandates boat insurance. This means that short-term visitors can legally boat in Utah without insurance, but long-term stays may require compliance with Utah’s insurance regulations.

Why You Should Consider Boat Insurance Even If It’s Not Required

While boat insurance is legally required for some watercraft, it’s a smart decision for all boat owners, regardless of the law. Here’s why you should consider investing in boat insurance, even if you own a non-motorized boat or a motorboat with a smaller engine.

1. Protection Against Liability Claims

Accidents happen, and even a small collision or mishap on the water can result in thousands of dollars in damages or injuries. Without insurance, you could be personally liable for these costs, which could include property damage, medical bills, and even legal fees if a lawsuit is involved. To avoid potentially high costs, explore the consequences of State Minimum Auto Insurance Can Be An Expensive Mistake.

2. Coverage for Uninsured Boaters

Not all boaters on the water carry insurance. If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boater, you could be stuck paying for the damages yourself. Boat insurance with uninsured boater coverage protects you in these situations, ensuring you’re not left covering someone else’s mistake.

3. Protection for Your Own Vessel

Boat insurance can also provide comprehensive and collision coverage, which protects your own boat from damage. Whether your boat is damaged in a collision, by severe weather, or even stolen, having insurance ensures that you won’t have to cover the cost of repairs or replacement out-of-pocket. You can read more about potential risks and insurance tips in our post on The Claims Process: Communication is Key.

4. Towing and Assistance Coverage

If your boat breaks down or runs into trouble on the water, towing and assistance coverage can be a lifesaver. Many insurance policies offer this as an optional add-on, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. Our guide on Windshield Replacement / Repair - Is It Covered? can help you understand similar coverage for different scenarios.

What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

When you purchase boat insurance, you can choose from a variety of coverages, allowing you to customize your policy to suit your specific needs. Here are some common types of coverage to consider:

1. Liability Insurance

Liability coverage is the foundation of any boat insurance policy. It covers you if you’re responsible for causing injury or property damage to someone else. This coverage is particularly important because the costs of an accident, including medical bills and repairs, can quickly escalate. For more details on liability coverage, check out Understanding Coverage Limits with Your Homeowners Policy.

2. Comprehensive and Collision Coverage

These coverages protect your boat from physical damage. Collision coverage applies if your boat is damaged in an accident, while comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision-related incidents, such as theft, vandalism, or weather-related damage. Learn more about comprehensive coverage in our Actual Cash Value Vs. Replacement Cost Value blog post.

3. Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage

If you’re in an accident caused by another boater who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your damages, uninsured/underinsured boater coverage ensures you won’t be left footing the bill.

4. Medical Payments Coverage

Medical payments coverage helps pay for medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident, regardless of who was at fault.

5. Towing and Assistance Coverage

Towing and assistance coverage ensures that if your boat breaks down on the water, you won’t be left stranded. This coverage can pay for emergency towing, fuel delivery, and even on-water repairs.

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost in Utah?

The cost of boat insurance in Utah varies based on several factors, including the type of boat you own, the amount of coverage you need, and your personal boating history. On average, Utah boaters pay around $263 per year for insurance. However, your premium could be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances.

If you're looking to bundle insurance policies and save on premiums, consider our offerings on Home Insurance | The Insurance Pros and Auto Insurance | The Insurance Pros - Auto insurance in Utah.

Why Choose The Insurance Pros for Boat Insurance in Utah?

At The Insurance Pros, we understand the unique needs of Utah boaters. Whether you own a motorboat, personal watercraft, or sailboat, we can help you find the right coverage to protect your investment. Here’s why Utah boaters trust us:

• Personalized Service: We offer customized policies to suit your specific needs.

• Access to Top Carriers: As an independent agency, we work with multiple top-rated insurance companies to find you the best rates.

• Local Expertise: With years of experience serving Utah residents, we know the specific risks and challenges boaters face on Utah’s waterways.

Conclusion: Do You Need Boat Insurance in Utah?

While boat insurance isn’t required for all watercraft in Utah, it’s a smart investment for any boat owner. Whether you’re navigating the Great Salt Lake or enjoying a weekend on Lake Powell, having the right coverage ensures that you and your boat are protected.

If you're ready to explore your boat insurance options, contact The Insurance Pros today. We’ll help you find the best policy at the best price, so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water.