How to File a Marine Insurance Claim in Florida

When to File a Marine Insurance Claim

Florida boaters can find themselves filing marine insurance claims for a wide range of incidents: collision damage, sinking, theft, storm damage, hurricane destruction, fuel spills, or liability for injuring another boater or damaging their property. Knowing the correct process — and following it promptly — significantly improves your chances of a smooth, fair resolution.

The fundamental rule: notify your insurer as soon as possible after any incident. Most policies require "prompt" notification, and unnecessary delays can give insurers grounds to dispute coverage. When in doubt, report it.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before anything else, ensure the safety of everyone involved:

• Account for all persons on board and render assistance to anyone injured
• Call the US Coast Guard (VHF Channel 16 or 911) for life-threatening emergencies
• Contact FWC or local law enforcement for accidents involving injuries, deaths, or significant damage
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage if safe to do so (keep all receipts)

Step 2: Document Everything

Thorough documentation is critical for any marine insurance claim:

• Photograph all damage from multiple angles before any cleanup or temporary repairs
• Take video of the scene, damage, and surrounding area
• If another vessel was involved, photograph that vessel, its registration numbers, and any identifying markings
• Collect contact information from all parties involved and any witnesses
• Note the date, time, location, weather conditions, and circumstances of the incident
• If at a marina or dock, ask for security camera footage immediately (footage is often overwritten quickly)

Step 3: Report to Authorities if Required

Florida law requires filing a boating accident report with FWC when an incident results in:

• Death or disappearance of any person
• Injury requiring more than first aid
• Property damage exceeding $2,000
• Complete loss of any vessel

Reports must be filed within 10 days (48 hours if there is a death). Obtain a copy of any official accident report number or documentation — your insurer will want this.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurer

Notify your insurer as soon as practicable after ensuring safety and initial documentation. When you call:

• Have your policy number ready
• Describe the incident clearly and concisely
• Provide the date, time, and location
• Describe the nature and extent of damage
• Provide any other vessels or parties involved
• Ask about emergency towing or temporary repair coverage
• Get a claim number and adjuster contact information

Step 5: The Claims Assessment Process

After reporting your claim:

• Your insurer will assign a marine claims adjuster
• For significant damage, a marine surveyor may inspect the vessel
• Do not authorize major repairs until the adjuster has assessed the damage
• Obtain multiple repair estimates from qualified marine yards
• Keep records of all correspondence with your insurer
• If the vessel is uninhabitable or unusable, ask about loss of use coverage

Common Reasons Claims Are Delayed or Denied

Understanding why claims are disputed helps you avoid common pitfalls:

• Late notification: Failing to report promptly can give insurers grounds to deny coverage
• Undisclosed use: If you were using the vessel commercially without declaring it, your claim may be denied
• Navigation area violations: If you were outside your policy's covered navigation area when the incident occurred
• Hurricane clause violations: Failure to haul out or take required storm precautions
• Intoxication: BUI at the time of an accident is grounds for denial
• Lack of documentation: Insufficient evidence of ownership, vessel condition, or incident circumstances

Working with Your Adjuster

Building a cooperative relationship with your claims adjuster improves outcomes:

• Respond promptly to all adjuster communications
• Provide complete and accurate information
• Share all your documentation proactively
• If you disagree with an assessment, ask for the basis of their decision in writing
• You have the right to get an independent marine survey opinion if you dispute the adjuster's findings

Most marine insurance claims in Florida are handled fairly and efficiently. The key is prompt reporting, thorough documentation, and clear communication with your insurer throughout the process.