Boating enthusiasts and owners are always left with a sense of unease when a hurricane is expected to hit the coast. With winds that can reach up to 160 mph, it’s no surprise that boats are some of the most vulnerable assets during a tropical storm or hurricane.
So, what happens to boats that get damaged during a hurricane?
The first thing that happens to boats that get caught in the middle of a hurricane is that the boats are tossed around, slammed into other boats or objects, and hit by debris propelled by the hurricane winds. Boats that are on land also suffer damage because of the high winds that will batter them. All of these factors make it extremely difficult to salvage boats after a hurricane.
After the hurricane has passed, boat owners and insurance companies conduct an evaluation of the damage to the vessels. In most cases, boats that have sustained significant hurricane damage are labeled as “total loss” because the cost of repairs far outweighs the value of the boat.
For boats that can be salvaged, the next step is to transport them to a repair shop. This can be a difficult task, as the roads leading to marinas or boatyards are often damaged or obstructed by debris. Boat repair companies will also be busy with repair work for weeks, if not months, after the hurricane. This means that the time frame for repairs can be significantly delayed, leaving boat owners with no choice but to wait.
One factor that affects the insurance process and repair work of boats in the aftermath of a hurricane is the condition of the marina or boatyard where the boats are parked. Depending on the category of the hurricane, marinas or boatyards may be completely destroyed. This can cause further delays and complications in accessing the damaged vessels and conducting repair work.
In some cases, government aid is available to boat owners to help cover repair costs or replace the boat. Depending on the extent of the damage, the owner may also be eligible for a tax break.
Boats that are damaged during a hurricane are subject to evaluation by insurance companies and boat repair shops. Factors such as the severity of the damage, accessibility to the vessel, and availability of repair personnel all make the process complicated, lengthy, and often expensive. Under these circumstances, it is critical for boat owners to be vigilant in ensuring their boats are safe during a hurricane, and to have adequate insurance coverage in case of damage or loss.