Everything You Need to Know About GAP Coverage Auto Insurance


GAP Coverage Automobile Insurance is also called Guaranteed Asset Protection or Guaranteed Auto Protection in the North American insurance industry. This type of insurance plan coverage will pay for the discrepancy between the balance owed on the loan, vehicle, or lease, and the real cash value of the car or truck. This protection is typically used upon the purchase of used and new small cars and trucks and big, hefty trucks. In some cases, your lease contract or loan company will demand it.

What Does it Cover?

GAP will cover the amount on the loan that is the difference between the value of the vehicle and the amount that another insurance policy covers. Typically, your finance company will offer you this kind of coverage at the time you purchase the vehicle. Most auto insurance companies offer this coverage as well to its consumers.

Obtaining GAP Insurance

You can obtain GAP through two ways: through your insurance company or at your dealership. If you choose to obtain GAP Coverage through your insurance broker, this is regulated by the insurance industry.

Either method you decide to acquire it, the coverage will be the very same and it is offered as a soft product through the automobile dealer. The protection is typically financed along with your lease or loan. Any type of claims you submit are subject to an absolute loss, that is generally established via the third-party evaluator with the primary insurance company.

More about GAP

Exclusions to your GAP Coverage Auto Insurance vary by the country or state. Many states in the United States require that a car dealership offers GAP at the point of purchase of a used or new vehicle. Some other states only require that an insurer offer it if the client asks about it.

It's important to note that GAP coverage is an optional product. Some of the finance companies require you to obtain it as a condition to obtain a loan from them. The Truth In Lending Act does leave out GAP Protection premiums from any financial expenses in the case that it was not mandated by the financial institution, or if premiums were not divulged in writing, or if the customer gave a written request for the insurance policy.

Before you make the purchase this coverage type, think about the policy and the size of your down payment. If you are setting down 20% or less on your down payment for your car acquisition, you may need the GAP-especially if you are acquiring a vehicle that will decrease in value quickly. Make sure to check with your auto insurance policy and how it is written. You will not need the GAP Coverage if your policy will pay off your financed amount in full.

David Baldwin is a writer, avid car enthusiast and retired insurance agent. He is an active contributor to Car Quotes Instant, the #1 destination for getting auto insurance tips and auto insurance quotes.




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