Insurance on leased car

When you lease a car, you are essentially borrowing it from the leasing company for a certain period of time. During this time, it is your responsibility to ensure that the car is adequately insured, just as you would with any other car that you own or rent.

However, insurance on leased cars can be a bit more complicated than insurance on other types of cars. In this article, we will explore the various types of insurance that you may need for a leased car, as well as some frequently asked questions about car leasing insurance.

Types of insurance required for leased cars

When you lease a car, the leasing company will typically require you to have certain types of insurance coverage. These may include:

Type of insurance
Description
Liability insurance
Covers damages or injuries that you may cause to others in an accident
Collision insurance
Covers damages to your leased car in the event of a collision
Comprehensive insurance
Covers damages to your leased car that were not caused by a collision, such as theft or vandalism

It is important to note that the leasing company may require you to have higher insurance limits than what is legally required in your state. This is because the leasing company has a financial interest in the car and wants to ensure that it is adequately protected in the event of an accident.

FAQ about insurance on leased cars

What happens if I do not have insurance on my leased car?

If you do not have insurance on your leased car, you are in violation of your lease agreement. The leasing company may charge you fees or penalties, and they may even repossess the car. In addition, if you are involved in an accident and do not have insurance, you may be personally liable for any damages or injuries that you cause.

Can I use my own insurance on a leased car?

Yes, you can typically use your own insurance on a leased car. However, you will need to ensure that your insurance meets the requirements set forth by the leasing company. This may include higher limits than what is legally required in your state.

Do I need gap insurance on a leased car?

Gap insurance is not typically required for leased cars, but it may be a good idea to have it. Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on the car and its actual cash value in the event that the car is totaled or stolen. This can be especially important for leased cars, as you may owe more than the car is worth due to depreciation.

What if I want to modify my leased car?

Modifying a leased car can be tricky, as you do not technically own the car. Before making any modifications, you should check with the leasing company to see if they allow it. In addition, any modifications that you make may need to be removed before you return the car at the end of the lease term.

What happens to my insurance when I return a leased car?

Once you return a leased car, your insurance coverage for that car will end. You should ensure that you have coverage for any new car that you may lease or purchase.

Conclusion

Insurance on leased cars can be complex, but by understanding the types of insurance that are required and some of the frequently asked questions, you can ensure that you are adequately protected while leasing a car. Be sure to read your lease agreement carefully and work with your insurance provider to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs.