Jerry Carter of State Farm Insurance announced new coverage options for Oak Lawn boat owners. With warmer weather drawing more residents onto Illinois waterways, Carter is encouraging clients in and around Oak Lawn to review their policies before the busiest months begin, noting that boating activity typically increases as temperatures rise, along with the potential for accidents, weather-related damage, and liability exposure.
More details can be found at https://insurewithjerry.com/
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 3,887 recreational boating incidents were reported in 2024, resulting in 556 fatalities, 2,170 injuries, and approximately $88 million in property damage. While overall fatality rates have declined over the past five decades, the data highlights the financial and legal risks present whenever vessels take to the water.
“Boating is meant to be enjoyable, but it also carries responsibility,” Carter said. “We take the time to understand how each client uses their boat, where it’s stored, and who operates it so we can walk through coverage options that fit their specific situation.”
State Farm boat insurance policies available through Carter’s office can help protect against physical damage from risks such as storms, fire, theft, sinking, and collisions. In addition, liability coverage may help address legal claims and financial losses if a vessel causes injury to others or damage to docks, structures, or nearby boats.
Beyond core protection, policies may also include options such as temporary repairs, emergency service, and wreck removal. Agreed value loss settlement is available for total losses, allowing boaters to know in advance how their vessel would be valued in the event of a covered claim.
Carter notes that many boat owners often erroneously assume coverage is automatically extended through homeowners’ policies, which oftentimes does not provide sufficient protection for larger or motorized watercraft. His office reviews each client’s existing insurance portfolio to identify gaps and outline available solutions for sailboats, fishing boats, jet skis, kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft.
Although Illinois does not require boat insurance by law, Carter notes that lenders, marinas, and rental agreements may have their own coverage requirements. More importantly, he adds, protection can help safeguard both the vessel itself and the owner’s broader financial wellbeing.
Boat owners in Oak Lawn and nearby communities interested in reviewing their coverage options can contact Jerry Carter of State Farm Insurance at https://insurewithjerry.com/
Jerry Carter, State Farm Insurance
9816 South Cicero Avenue
Oak Lawn
IL
60453
United States
