Original Articles Written by:
Nicole Kimble & Nicole Michael
Foremost Insurance Group
With the crisp winter air, it won’t be long before you’re able to take your snowmobile out on the trail, if you haven’t already. Before you do, you may want to ask your AAA Insurance Agent some questions about snowmobile insurance coverage. AAA’s preferred Insurance Provider, Foremost Insurance Group, has some suggestions to help you get started.
1. Is my optional equipment covered?
“You’ll want to know if your windshields, new seats or running boards are covered under your current policy, if they aren’t included as standard by the manufacturer,” says Foremost® assistant product manager Jarrod Long. “A good policy will give you a set amount of coverage for optional equipment included with your comprehensive coverage, with the ability to purchase more.”
2. Is my safety apparel covered?
“Helmets, gloves, boots and any other clothing designed to minimize injury are generally considered safety apparel,” adds Long. “Be sure to discuss what this coverage includes with your agent. Typically damage to safety apparel is covered, but theft is not. Check with your AAA Insurance Agent.”
3. What kind of higher limits are available for Liability coverage?
“Liability coverage is important in case you are found responsible for someone else’s injury while driving your snowmobile,” states Long. “Considering attorney fees and other costs associated with litigation can increase quickly, having the option for higher limits is a plus.. Based on their financial situation, most people try to match their snowmobile liability limits to the liability limits they have on their automobile.”
4. What discounts are available?
“Discounts will help you save money on the premium you pay for your policy,” Long adds. “You may qualify for a multi-policy discount if you insure more than just your snowmobile with the same company. Specifically for snowmobiles, you may be able to get discounts for taking safety courses or having multiple vehicles.”
How to prepare your snowmobile for winter
As excited as you might be for snow, you don’t want to be left out in the cold. Here are some handy tips for winterizing snowmobiles to help ensure it’s safe and ready to ride!
1. Inspection
An overall inspection of the parts. This would include looking for cracks, excessive wear and tear, and anything that might have come loose. Anything used to block air intake or exhaust pipes should be unplugged.
2. Checking Levels
Fluids such as gas, brake fluid and coolant should all be checked and topped off if low. If there is remaining gas in the tank from the previous season, it’s suggested that the tank be drained and filled up with fresh gas.
3. Evaluating the Engine
Checking that carburetors are clean is important as dirty ones are a main cause of engine failure. Also, snowmobilers should make sure that the throttle, oil cables, fan and water pump belt are in good condition and without cracks.
4. Examining the Skis
Since skis are one of the most important pieces of the snowmobile, they should be checked not only for any holes, cuts or gouges, but to ensure that the runners are aligned straight!
5. Cleaning
Dirt, salt, leaves and other debris are all commonly found on snowmobiles coming out of storage. Most of it can probably be cleaned off with water and mild cleansers.
6. Storage
All these steps are equally important when preparing the snowmobile for storage at the end of the season. But in the meantime, get out and enjoy the snow while you can!