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Gap Insurance 101

Your Guide To Car Gap Insurance or "Totaled Insurance"

By , About.com Guide

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When one goes to buy a vehicle at the car dealership, the last thing on their mind is what would happen if their new or nearly new car was soon totaled. Gap car insurance, or known to some as "totaled insurance", covers the gap in insurance that some mistakenly believe is already covered by their full coverage auto insurance. There is more to gap insurance that most people think so here is a Gap Car Insurance guide that will answer the most pressing questions about gap car insurance.

What is GAP Insurance?

GAP insurance will insure one for the difference between what one would owe on a vehicle and what an insurance company says it's worth. This insurance is a must for someone who is considering purchasing a new vehicle since a new vehicle depreciates right after it is driven off the dealer's lot.

What Does GAP Insurance Cover?

Depending on the policy, GAP insurance usually covers accidents and thefts, but not all policies are the same so it's a good idea to evaluate the coverages being offered before purchasing GAP insurance.

Can I Buy GAP Insurance for My Older Vehicle?

Maybe, depending on the year and the GAP insurance company. Although a small minority of insures may provide GAP insurance for any vehicle, it is usually only available for new or nearly new cars being financed.

Is GAP Insurance Required by Law?

No. Most lending companies who finance cars do require full coverage insurance but not GAP insurance, so the owner would have to pay the depreciation difference if they had a total loss of their vehicle and chose not to add GAP insurance to their policy.

What About My Leased Car... Does it Automatically Come With GAP insurance?

Usually GAP insurance is built into the lease but, again, don’t assume it is since every lease is different.

Can I Buy GAP Insurance from the Dealership?

Yes, most dealerships will offer GAP insurance. Before deciding to buy additional insurance, in any situation, always make sure you are not already covered by current insurance policies.

How Do I Know if My Insurance Company Offers GAP Insurance?

Before deciding to purchase a new vehicle, check with your current insurance provider about GAP insurance. It may already be built into the premium. If it is not, GAP insurance can usually be purchased for a reasonable additional cost. But, some auto insurers do not offer GAP insurance at all. It this case, you can either purchase GAP insurance from the dealership, another insurance company, or an online GAP insurance company.

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