When leasing a car, purchasing auto insurance is obligatory. Collision and comprehensive coverage are mandated by both the auto dealer and the financing institution, ensuring protection for your investment.

You will need to buy these coverages in addition to the others that may be mandatory in your state, such as auto liability insurance.

  • Collision covers the damage to the car from an accident with another automobile or object.
  • Comprehensive coverage covers a loss caused by something other than a collision with another car or object, such as a fire, theft, or collision with a deer.

The leasing company may also require gap insurance. If you have an accident and your leased car is damaged beyond repair or “totaled,” there’s likely to be a difference between the amount you still owe the auto dealer and the check you’ll get from your insurance company. That’s because the insurance company’s check is based on the car’s actual cash value, which takes depreciation into account. The difference between the two amounts is known as the “gap.”

The cost of gap insurance is generally rolled into the lease payments on a leased car. You don’t buy a gap policy. Typically, the auto dealer buys a master policy from an insurance company to cover all the cars it leases and charges you for a “gap waiver.” If your leased car is totaled, you won’t have to pay the dealer the gap amount. Check with the auto dealer when leasing your car.

If you have an auto loan rather than a lease, you may want to buy gap insurance to protect yourself from coming up with the gap amount if your car is totaled before you’ve finished paying for it. Ask your insurance professional about gap insurance; it may not be available in some states.

Read Other Blog Posts

Car in snow

Tips for Driving in Extreme Weather

Driving in adverse weather conditions can be downright nerve-wracking. It can also be very dangerous. Being aware of how to modify your driving during heavy rain, snow and fog can help you stay calm and safe during your journey. Consider the following tips when driving in extreme weather.
Ice Dams A Winter Challenge for Homeowners

Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners

Read our blog post, Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners for some great tips on preventing ice dams and what to do in the case of ice dams on your roof. Ice dams are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage to your home. While prevention is the best strategy, ice dams can still form despite your efforts, so having a response plan is crucial. Ice dams occur when attic air warms to above freezing, causing snow on the roof to melt. As the water runs down the roof and reaches the colder edges, it refreezes, creating an ice dam. These dams block water from draining off the roof, causing it to pool and seep under shingles, into the attic, or along exterior walls.
Driving car

Does My Insurance Cover Pothole Damage?

Although potholes may be unavoidable, vehicular damage doesn’t have to be. Consider the following guidelines for avoiding pothole-related damage.
Frozen Pipes

How to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can be an unnoticed danger, often going undetected until the weather begins to thaw. Here are some tips on how avoid frozen pipes and what to do if a pipe freezes.
Fireworks

New Year, New You: Top 10 Personal Insurance Tips

As the new year kicks off, it’s a great time to check in on your personal insurance. Life changes quickly and making sure your coverage keeps up can save you stress down the road. Here are 10 helpful tips to help you feel confident and protected this year.
People celebrating

Hosting Holiday Parties Responsibly: Tips for Personal & Business Gatherings

While it’s easy to get caught up in the fun, taking some simple precautions can prevent mishaps and protect you from unexpected situations. Here are some practical tips for hosting a safe and successful holiday party, with a focus on being prepared.
Holiday Decorations

10 Tips for Disaster-Free Holidays

From mishaps in the kitchen to accidents involving decorations, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your holidays stay merry and bright. Here are ten tips to help you enjoy a safe and disaster-free holiday season.
Map & Passport

Travel Smart: Holiday Safety Tips for Your Seasonal Adventures

Between the packed highways, bustling airports, and unpredictable weather, holiday travel comes with its fair share of challenges; here are some fun and practical tips for staying safe while traveling this holiday season.
Snowy Neighborhood

Protect Your Property This Winter: Tips to Prevent Costly Damage

From frozen pipes to roof collapses, the risks of winter property damage are real for both residential and commercial property owners. The good news? Many of these issues can be avoided with proactive steps that save you money and help keep your insurance premiums manageable.

Visit Our Auto Insurance Page

Auto Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we are here to assist you in obtaining the appropriate auto insurance. Choosing the appropriate auto insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Every insurance company has its unique offerings, making it challenging to compare options effectively. That’s where we shine. We simplify the process by helping you evaluate provider and policy choices, seek out discounts, and optimize your car insurance within your budget constraints. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected.

Visit Our Personal Insurance Page

Personal Insurance

Life is an ever-changing journey, and it deserves a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to protect the things and people that matter most. Our dedicated team at Murphy Insurance is here to assist you in creating that plan. With a wide range of product options at our disposal, we ensure that your plan is tailored precisely to your requirements. Our commitment to providing clear, intelligent guidance to help you achieve true peace of mind. Learn more about our personal insurance portfolio.