What Happens if You Crash a Lease Car?

What happens if you crash a lease car?

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you're driving a leased car.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps you’ll need to take if you find yourself in this situation. From the initial steps of the accident to dealing with insurance claims and lease obligations, we'll break down the process into simple, manageable steps.

What to do if your leased car is involved in an accident

If your leased car is involved in an accident there are several steps that you’ll need to take. From gathering essential information at the scene to contacting your insurance provider as soon as you can, we'll cover everything you need to know to handle the situation properly. Let’s take a closer look, shall we?

What do I do at the scene of the car accident?

If you unfortunately find yourself in a car crash, there are some immediate next steps that you’ll need to take at the scene of the accident.

1. Stop at the scene — this is a legal requirement
2. Switch off your engine
3. Switch on your hazard lights
4. Check for any injuries to yourself and any passengers in your car and any other cars involved
5. Note down the address, time, and specifics of all of the cars involved
6. Exchange contact details with anyone involved, including any witnesses
7. Take photographs of any damage
8. Contact your insurance provider and provide them with the necessary details above (and remember, the more details you have, the better!)

Who do you inform if your lease car is in a crash?

After the accident, your immediate priority should be contacting your insurance provider. You should provide them with all the details collected from the scene of the accident as soon as you’re able to.

Under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, failing to report an accident is an offence with potential consequences. Failing to inform your insurer could have serious repercussions, including potential invalidation of your cover, so it's absolutely vital that you remember to do this.

After you’ve contacted your insurance provider, you’ll also need to let your leasing provider know about the crash, along with any details of the damage.

Leasing with ZenAuto? If you have damaged your car and it’s repairable, you should first contact your insurance provider and then contact our Support Squad on 0113 468 5377 or email [email protected], to let us know about the accident. As the registered keeper of your car, we must keep a record of any damage, but it’s your responsibility to repair the car.

If your unfortunate to be involved in an incident where your car is written off, you must first ring us directly via the above methods. We’ll take details of the incident and speak to your insurer directly to settle the loss.

What will happen to my insurance if my lease car is in an accident?

The impact on your insurance policy following an accident depends on the severity of the damage. Your insurance provider will discuss any potential changes to your policy with you based on this.

If your lease car is damaged, you’ll have to pay to repair the damage, or you’ll receive a charge at the end of your leasing contract when you hand your car back.

If, however, your lease car is written off, you may be facing bigger charges (more on that next).

What happens if you write off a lease car?

So, if you've found yourself in the unfortunate situation of writing off your leased car, you might be wondering what happens next.

See, it all boils down to the terms of your lease agreement. First and foremost, you'll need to determine whether you're responsible for settling the remainder of the lease agreement. Factors like depreciation and mileage will play a role in determining the outstanding balance you might owe.

If you have GAP insurance, this coverage can help bridge the gap between the car's value and what you still owe on the lease, offering you some much-needed financial relief.

So, while the situation might seem daunting, understanding your options can turn it into an opportunity to navigate through with confidence.

What kind of damage is acceptable on a lease car?

If you’re in a car accident and the car hasn’t been written off, then you may find that you’re left with some damage that you’ve got to deal with. This might leave you wondering what damage is acceptable on a lease car.

When it comes to leasing cars, some fair wear and tear is generally acceptable, especially if you've been cruising around for a while. Think along the lines of typical wear and tear: minor scratches, or interior wear from regular use. Basically, anything that doesn't significantly affect the car's functionality or appearance beyond what's considered reasonable.

So, while a few nicks and scuffs are par for the course, it's best to keep your leased ride in the best shape possible to avoid any surprises down the road! Anything beyond regular fair wear and tear will need to be repaired by yourself, or you’ll be charged at the end of your lease.

Does an accident affect the rest of my car lease?

Yes, an accident involving your leased car can potentially affect the remainder of your lease. The extent of the impact will of course depend on various factors, including the severity of the accident, the repairs needed, and the terms outlined in your lease agreement.

If the accident results in significant damage but the car is repairable, you may need to cover the costs of repairs. Additionally, if the repairs affect the car's appearance or functionality beyond what's considered normal wear and tear, you could face additional charges when returning the vehicle at the end of the lease.

However, if the accident results in the car being declared a total loss ("written off") then the financial implications can be much bigger. It's important to review your lease agreement and insurance plans carefully to understand your rights and obligations in the event of an accident.

Ready to lease your dream car with ZenAuto?

Leasing with ZenAuto offers peace of mind, even in challenging situations like car accidents.

Take the next step with ZenAuto today and discover a hassle-free leasing journey tailored just for you. Explore our top lease deals and embark on your leasing journey with confidence.