What to do if you collide

In the majority of cases, it is likely your policy will cover the incident, both in terms of damage to your boat and any claims made against you by passengers or third parties.

Be aware and in control. 

If a collision is unavoidable try to minimise the damage and avoid injury.

Remember that boats can be repaired more easily than people, so passengers should be your priority and should be discouraged from fending off with any part of their body. Low-speed collisions can often be safely deflected with a fender – so have one handy and tell the crew where it is!

After a collision

• The first thing to do is try and stay calm and rational. Inspect the damage and move the boat to a safe location to prevent any further damage. Exchange details with all the other parties concerned, including witnesses.
• If anybody claims to be injured, note down all the details. Make sure you get the name of the skipper, the insurer details of any other boats involved in the incident and photo where appropriate.
• Avoid admitting liability wherever possible. It helps the insurer later on and it may turn out you were not liable. If you decide to settle without involving insurers bear in mind that if costs spiral or the matter takes a complex turn it is difficult for insurers to take over the case.
• If the insurer is not involved from the very beginning, then you may not be able to recover all your costs. Except for very minor incidents, it is always best to contact your insurer immediately.
• If you weren’t present and if your boat is damaged when you were away from it, you will need to check for any witnesses. N&G would need to know what caused the damage and when it occurred and will pay ‘reasonable’ costs that you incur in taking action to safeguard your boat against further loss or damage.

Making a claim

You will need to complete and submit a claim form. Once received and the claim approved, estimates for repairs will be
requested and you can then decide whether or not to claim, based on excess limits and
loss of No Claims Bonus.

N&G’s team of experienced claims handlers have excellent relationships with approved repairers, boat yards and surveyors to ensure work is carried out quickly and to a high standard.