What Is the Most Common Cause of an Insurance Claim?

We’re diving into a topic that's crucial for anyone interested in insurance: the most common causes of claims. Jake Hill, the director of insurance from New Coast, is here to share his expertise. 

The Leading Cause of Claims: Striking a Submerged Object

The most frequent cause of insurance claims is striking a submerged object. This might come as a surprise to some, as we often think of dramatic events like hurricanes and tornadoes when we think of insurance. However, the everyday hazards lurking just below the surface are what most often lead to claims.

Common scenarios include hitting a log, rock, or reef, which can result in significant damage such as dinging the propeller or tearing off the lower unit. The good news is that these types of claims are typically straightforward and quick to repair, minimizing downtime and hassle for the policyholder.

Other Common Causes of Claims

While submerged objects top the list, several other causes are also significant:

1. Theft of Personal Property and Electronics

Personal property and electronics theft is another common reason for claims. These incidents are unfortunate but frequent, emphasizing the need for comprehensive coverage that includes personal belongings.

2. Lightning Strikes

Interestingly, lightning strikes have become a notable cause of claims recently. With more electronic systems in use, a lightning strike can lead to extensive and costly damage. The increase in payouts related to lightning is noticeable, especially in areas prone to thunderstorms.

The Impact of Major Weather Events

Although they don't occur as frequently, major weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes are responsible for the largest insurance payouts due to their widespread and severe impact. These events attract a lot of attention due to their dramatic nature and the extensive damage they cause. However, because they are limited to specific regions and times of the year, their frequency is lower compared to more common causes like submerged object strikes and theft.

Conclusion

In summary, while hurricanes and major weather events dominate the headlines, the most common cause of insurance claims is striking a submerged object. This everyday risk, along with theft and lightning strikes, represents the bulk of claims handled by insurance companies.

Feel free to leave your comments and questions below. Until next time, stay safe and insured! We'll see you out there.