Allstate Wants to Keep the "Boom" on the Right Side of Your Boat

NORTHBROOK, Ill., Aug. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- As the 2011 boating season winds down, good news from the Coast Guard is both cause for celebration and a reminder to remain vigilant. According to a recent report, recreational boating fatalities fell to 672 in 2010 - a record low – and reported accidents fell from 4730 in 2009 to 4604 in 2010 as well.

Allstate Insurance internal data shows the leading causes of boating accidents are hitting submerged objects (e.g. a rock or log) and running the boat aground. These types of incidents accounted for two-thirds of Allstate boating accident claims in 2010.

Allstate recently released video vignettes to help boaters learn the best ways to remain safe out on the water. These short videos are available at www.youtube.com/allstatenews . Additionally, the following simple tips will help boaters steer clear of accidents by keeping the "boom" on the side of their boat and not under it:

• A depth-finder and charts of the underwater landscape can help prevent running aground.
• Give your boat a full check-up before you cast off. Test the radio, lights, steering, gauges, fuel level, bilge pump, and anchor.
• Make sure you've got the right safety equipment on board, including a fire extinguisher, flares, flashlight, first aid kit, air horn, and dinghy.
• Make sure a relative or friend has your float plan.
• Get familiar with your crafts' controls and how it handles, so you won't be surprised when you're out.
• Check the weather forecast.
• Make sure you have enough Personal Flotation Devices for all your passengers, and check that they fit properly.

Boat owners should also be sure they are adequately insured:

• Forty percent of boaters are uninsured. That's why Allstate offers features and options that protect your craft from bow to stern. Allstate also protects your gear and accessories, including anchors, skis, fishing gear, and more.
• Although premiums will vary based on the amount of insurance purchased and other factors, boat insurance policies start as low as about $23 per month.
• Talk to your agent about available discounts. For example, Allstate has discounts for new boats, for combining your boat insurance with auto and homeowners insurance, and for taking a boat safety education course.

For more information on boat insurance talk to a local agent, or visit www.allstate.com/boat-insurance.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

SOURCE Allstate Insurance Company