Car accidents happen unexpectedly, and when you're leasing a vehicle rather than owning it outright, the process does differ. Here, we'll guide you through everything you need to know if your leased car is involved in an accident.
Leasing a car mandates getting fully comprehensive car insurance, ensuring coverage for all parties in case of an incident. In the event of a car accident involving multiple parties, it's crucial to exchange details such as vehicle make, model, registration plate, and insurance company information. Capturing photos of the incident is advisable for potential insurance needs later on.
Afterward, promptly contact your insurance company, providing all necessary incident details. If the accident was your fault and you aim to protect your no-claims bonus, you may not need to submit a claim, but notifying your insurance company remains essential to avoid potential coverage issues.
Additionally, inform the finance company overseeing your leased vehicle. They may have specific procedures for the car's repairs, even if you choose to cover the repair costs. This ensures compliance with their processes and adheres to the correct channels with authorised personnel.
If your car is deemed a total loss, the finance company will consider it a purchase, ending the lease contract. However, keep in mind that your insurance company will only cover the current market value of the vehicle, potentially leaving you responsible for a significant portion of the expenses.
This why it is good to consider obtaining GAP insurance when leasing a vehicle. GAP insurance covers the difference between the amount offered by the insurance company at market value and the amount owed to the finance company if the car is declared a total loss. This added protection is especially valuable when leasing, providing financial security in the unfortunate event of your leased car being written off.
After an accident, once your car is fully repaired, there should be no issues with your lease or finance company. If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Contact us at website@v4b.co.uk or call us at 0800 096 6488.