Page 14 - Explore Your AAA – AAA Southern Pennsylvania – Summer 2022

EXPLORE | SAFETY & SECURITY SUMMER EDITION 2022
Enjoy the Waters Responsibly
Summertime’s warm weather brings fun for seafaring lovers. No matter how experienced you may be on motorboats, sailboats or personal watercraft, it’s always a good idea to brush up on these boat safety tips.
DON’T DRINK AND BOAT
Operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal. Drinking while boating can be just as dangerous as drinking and driving. The U.S. Coast Guard numbers suggest that alcohol was
a contributing factor to nearly 300 accidents in 2020, accounting for 115 deaths. Before you enjoy the waters, designate a sober motorist.
ALWAYS WEAR A LIFE JACKET
Life jackets on motorboats and other watercraft vessels are like seatbelts in motor vehicles: wearing them can save lives. According to the Coast Guard, 75% of fatal boating accidents that occurred in 2020 were by drowning. Of those victims who died, 86% were not wearing a life jacket. The Coast Guard requires a Coast Guard-approved life jacket to be available for each person onboard a vessel. Boats 16 feet and longer are required to have at least one throwable personal flotation device onboard.
All states require life jackets
for children; however,
requirements vary by state.
In states that do not have
laws on life jacket usage, the
Coast Guard still requires
children under age 13 to wear
an approved life jacket on moving water vehicles.
WATCH FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER
While summer brings sunshine, we also can experience pretty significant weather. Always check the local weather before leaving the dock. Weather can change very quickly, so make sure you keep an eye out for inclement weather once you’re on the water. You should get off the water as soon as possible if you notice any changes to the wind, darkened skies, choppy water or thunder and lightning.
BOAT INSURANCE
Make sure everything is smooth sailing with the correct coverage you need for your vessel. Talk to your local insurance agent about policy options for whatever boat you have, including coverage for your boat trailer and boat lift.
RIDE INSURED WITH AAA.
Whether your summer ride is a motorcycle, classic car, ATV, boat, RV or jet ski, AAA Insurance Agents can help make sure all of your summer toys are insured and ready to ride!
CALL 1-800-222-1469
GO TO AAA.COM/INSURANCE VISIT YOUR LOCAL AAA OFFICE
AAA Insurance is provided through AAA Southern Pennsylvania Insurance Agency, which offers products through AAA-affiliated companies and non-affiliated companies.
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