Summer is practically here in Jacksonville Beach, and that means it’s go-time for long weekends, beach drives, boat days, and backyard BBQs. If you’re dusting off the camper, hitching up the trailer, or firing up the jet ski, you might assume your standard insurance policy has you covered.
Spoiler: it might not.
At First Beaches Insurance, we see this all the time. People in Jacksonville and across Florida invest in their weekend fun—boats, motorcycles, RVs, you name it—but don’t forget to double-check if those toys are protected. So before you roll out, rev up, or launch off, let’s break down what your insurance might not be covering (yet).
The Coverage Assumption Trap
If you think your homeowners or auto policy automatically covers your boat, motorcycle, or camper, you’re not alone. Many Florida residents assume their existing policies extend to their recreational vehicles.
The truth? These assets often require separate or specially endorsed policies. For example:
- Your auto policy likely won’t cover physical damage to a trailer or RV unless specifically listed.
- Jet skis and boats usually need dedicated watercraft insurance, especially for liability.
- ATVs or golf carts used off-property or on public roads need specialized protection.
Bottom line: if it’s not spelled out in your policy, it’s probably not covered.
What You Should Consider Insuring Separately
Living in coastal Florida means owning gear that fits the lifestyle. Here are some of the most commonly overlooked “toys” that deserve their own policy or endorsement:
- Boats & Jet Skis: Includes hull damage, liability, fuel spill coverage, uninsured boater protection.
- RVs & Campers: Think collision, theft, roadside assistance, and coverage for contents inside.
- Motorcycles & ATVs: These often require their own policies with proper liability and medical coverage.
- Utility or Boat Trailers: Protection for damage while in tow or parked.
- High-End Gear: From e-bikes to paddleboards, some gear may need to be scheduled on your personal property policy.
Pro tip: If you can launch it, ride it, or sleep in it, —you should probably ask if it’s covered.
What Proper Coverage Looks Like
Not all weekend toys are created equal—and neither are the policies that protect them. Here’s what to look for:
- Liability Protection: Covers damage or injury you cause to others.
- Comprehensive & Collision: For accidental damage, theft, or weather-related losses (hello, hurricane season).
- Medical Payments & Guest Passenger Coverage: Especially important for motorcycles, boats, and off-road vehicles.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Protection: Because not everyone is as responsible as you.
Whether you’re in Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Atlantic Beach, or downtown Jacksonville, the risk is real. And local expertise matters when choosing a policy that actually fits your lifestyle.
Why It Matters
Imagine this: you’re out for a weekend ride, your ATV flips, and your standard policy doesn’t cover off-road accidents. Or your trailer gets damaged while parked at a rest stop—and it was never listed on your auto policy. These gaps can lead to major out-of-pocket costs.
Don’t let a simple oversight ruin your summer.
Let’s Make Sure You’re Covered
At First Beaches Insurance, we’re proud to be Jacksonville Beach locals who understand the lifestyle here. We’ll walk you through exactly what your policy does—and doesn’t—cover.
You bring the sunscreen. We’ll bring the peace of mind.
Call us today for a quick quote or a no-pressure policy review.
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