Waverunners, jet skis and other personal watercraft have been gaining popularity over their cousin the boat in the last few years. But, like boats, personal watercrafts require insurance and safety know-how.

INSURANCE

Home and auto insurance may provide limited coverage for water vehicles. Talk to your insurance representative about coverage limits. You may want to consider purchasing a personal watercraft policy to protect you and your water vehicle in the event of an accident.

The personal watercraft policy covers:

• bodily injury
• property damage
• guest passenger liability
• medical payments
• theft

Liability limits start at $15,000 and can be increased to $300,000.

Typical policies include deductibles of $250 for property damage, $500 for theft and $1,000 for medical payments.

Additional coverage can also be purchased for trailers and other accessories.

You should talk to your insurance representative about the type of coverage that would best suit your needs.

SAFETY KNOW-HOW

Know your craft and how it operates.

Know your local boating laws, navigational marks and signs.

Wear a personal flotation device, eye protection, wetsuit and gloves.

Do not operate a vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs.

Always stay to the right of other water vehicles.

Remember, sailboats, commercial vessels and fishing vessels have the right of way.