Month: November 2025

Should You File an Insurance Claim for a Minor Boat Accident?

Posted on by AgentInsure

Even careful boaters can experience minor mishaps, like a small dock scrape or a bump with another vessel. When the damage seems minimal, it’s natural to wonder whether filing an insurance claim is worth it. Here’s what to consider before you make that decision.

Assessing the Damage

Start by estimating the cost of repairs. If the damage is less than or close to your deductible, it may make more sense to pay out of pocket. Filing a claim for a small amount could lead to higher premiums down the line. However, if the damage affects the boat’s structural integrity, engine, or electrical systems, professional assessment and insurance coverage may be necessary.

Understanding Potential Rate Increases

Even a minor claim can influence your future premiums. Insurance providers track claims history, and frequent or low-value claims might label you as a higher-risk policyholder. Before reporting an incident, contact your agent confidentially to discuss how filing could affect your rates.

When You Should File

If another person or property was involved, or if there’s any possibility of hidden damage or injury, it’s generally wise to file a claim. These situations can escalate later, and having official documentation protects you legally and financially.

Document Everything

Take photos, gather witness information, and record details about the incident as soon as it happens. Whether you file a claim or not, accurate documentation ensures you’re prepared if issues arise later.

Contact Linda Dugan Insurance, Serving Astoria, OR

At Linda Dugan Insurance, we’re proud to serve boat owners in and around Astoria, OR. Contact us to talk with one of our friendly agents.

Common Vehicles You Need Toy Insurance For

Posted on by AgentInsure

Toy insurance in Astoria, OR, can help provide coverage for vehicles that your regular insurance won’t cover. For example, you can put a golf cart on your auto policy. Policies for “toy” vehicles can help cover various motorized or nonmotorized vehicles that don’t fit with other policies. 

What Is Considered a Toy Vehicle?

A toy vehicle, for insurance purposes, can be almost any vehicle that isn’t used for daily commuting or doesn’t have specialized insurance options. For example, some insurance companies include e-bikes in this category. However, many don’t, and you’d need a specialized e-bike policy. Snowmobiles, golf carts, ATVs, and other recreational vehicles are all considered “toy" vehicles.

Toy Policy Coverage

Standard toy insurance policies often include a liability component, making them necessary if you want to drive your vehicle on the road. Any vehicle driven on the public road, including golf carts and snowmobiles, must have proper insurance to comply with the law. 

Many policies can also provide coverage for theft, vandalism, and damage from natural disasters. Home insurance policies often provide limited coverage or specifically exclude coverage for items such as off-road vehicles. This makes it essential to work with an agent at Linda Dugan Insurance. 

What Counts as a “Toy”

Generally, these are vehicles used for leisure or hobbies. For example, dirt bikes, boats, jet skis, four-wheelers, golf carts, etc. are vehicles for which you could obtain this type of policy. These policies cover a wide range of vehicles, unlike standard auto or boat policies. 

An experienced representative here at Linda Dugan Insurance can help you learn whether you need a policy for your toys. Contact us to discuss it. We’re currently serving the Astoria, OR, area.