Understanding Insurance Costs for Leased Cars
Intro
When it comes to getting insurance for a leased car, it’s a whole different ball game than insuring a car you own outright. Leasing usually comes with its own set of guidelines and requirements which can make the process both a bit tricky and essential for your financial health. Understanding these costs is paramount not just for peace of mind, but also for keeping costs in check.
Leased vehicles often require more coverage than what you might choose for a car that sits in your driveway. This article will help you navigate through the various components that affect insurance costs for leased cars and explain why these differences matter. By the end, you’ll be more equipped to make informed decisions about coverage options and save some money along the way.
Coverage Options
Choosing the right insurance coverage is crucial, and it entails knowing the kinds available and their implications. Not all cars are created equal, and neither are the policies intended to protect them.
Types of Coverage Available
Typically, car insurance for leased vehicles tends to lean towards more comprehensive coverage. Here are some types:
- Liability Insurance: Covers damages you cause to others in an accident.
- Collision Coverage: Helps pay for damages to your leased car after a crash.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision-related damages, such as theft or natural disasters.
- Gap Insurance: This special coverage is worth mentioning, as it covers the difference between what you owe on your lease and the actual cash value of the car if it's totaled.
Understanding these options can often feel like peeling back layers of an onion—each layer adds more to the bigger picture of what you need to protect your leased asset adequately.
Liability Coverage Explained
Liability coverage is not just a legal requirement in most states; it’s also a critical part of your overall insurance strategy. For leased cars, leasing companies usually require a minimum amount of liability coverage, often higher than what you might find for owned vehicles. This is to protect their investment should an accident occur.
Liability coverage is generally divided into two areas:
- Bodily Injury Liability: If you injure someone in an accident, this pays for their medical expenses.
- Property Damage Liability: Covers damages to someone else's property as a result of the accident.
Both types will vary by state and leasing agreement, so it’s wise to consult both your insurance and leasing representatives to make sure you meet the necessary requirements without overspending.
Key Considerations
Before you jump into signing up for insurance on your leased vehicle, there are factors to take into account that might influence your final decision.
Factors to Assess When Choosing Insurance
Firstly, consider things like:
- Driving Habits: High mileage may increase your premiums.
- Vehicle Type: Sports cars usually come with higher insurance rates compared to sedans.
- Your Driving Record: A clean record is a strong bargaining chip for lower premiums.
- Location: Some areas are known for higher accident rates or theft, affecting overall rates.
Each factor plays a role in the overall cost, and it’s essential to evaluate how you fit into the larger picture.
Understanding Policy Limits
Finally, understanding your policy limits is crucial, especially with a leased vehicle. Policy limits refer to the maximum amount your insurance will pay out in a claim. These limits can vary greatly depending on the type of coverage you choose.
- Higher Limits: They usually mean higher premiums but provide better financial protection.
- Lower Limits: Might save you some cash upfront but could leave you exposed in a worst-case scenario.
It's vital to strike a balance that keeps you both adequately covered without breaking the bank.
"Finding the right balance between coverage, cost, and your leasing requirements is like walking a tightrope—too much weight in one direction can have you tumbling down with unexpected costs."
Defining Leased Vehicles
Understanding how leased vehicles fit into the broader automotive context is essential for making informed insurance decisions. Leasing a car often appears as a more appealing option than outright buying, largely due to several factors like lower monthly payments and the joy of driving a newer model every few years. However, it’s crucial to unpack what leasing really entails, especially when considering the implications for insurance costs.
Leased vehicles are not just any set of wheels; they come with specific characteristics that shape both usage and responsibilities. When you lease a car, you’re essentially renting it from a dealership for a set period, typically ranging from two to four years. During this time, you enjoy the benefits of having a brand new vehicle without the long-term commitment of ownership.
Characteristics of Leased Vehicles
- Mileage Limitations: Most leases come with an annual mileage cap (often about 12,000 to 15,000 miles). Exceeding this limit can result in steep penalties.
- Maintenance Obligations: Leasing contracts typically require you to maintain the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. This means you’ll need to keep up with scheduled services and repairs, which can sometimes be costly.
- Lower Initial Costs: Generally, leasing requires less money down upfront compared to buying, which is particularly attractive for those who may not have a lot of cash on hand.
One might think of leasing like renting an apartment. You get to experience living in a stylish pad without needing to worry about the long-term financial commitment of buying a house.
Differences Between Leasing and Buying
- Ownership: When you buy a vehicle, you have full ownership and can do as you please—modify it, sell it, or trade it in. With leasing, the dealership retains ownership, and you're under contract with specific stipulations.
- Equity: Buyers build equity in their cars over time. However, lease payments do not contribute to any ownership equity; instead, they go toward the vehicle's depreciation.
- Insurance Requirements: Leasing companies often mandate a higher level of insurance coverage compared to what you might need if you own the car outright. This can include both comprehensive and collision coverage, which impacts the overall insurance cost.
Ultimately, understanding these distinctions helps consumers navigate the waters of insurance more effectively and prepares them to meet the requirements set by leasing companies. The financial obligations of leasing extend beyond just monthly payments; they affect insurance needs, potential risks, and ultimately, the overall cost of having a leased vehicle. As we further dissect the nuances of insurance costs, grasping the fundamentals of leased vehicles will prove invaluable.
Key Factors Affecting Insurance Costs
Understanding the insurance costs associated with leased vehicles is crucial for anyone navigating the world of auto leasing. This section digs into the pivotal elements that influence these costs, providing a clearer picture for vehicle owners and lessees alike. By comprehensively analyzing the facets involved, one can make informed decisions that can significantly affect their financial obligations when leasing.
Vehicle Value and Make
The value and make of a leased vehicle play a significant role in determining insurance premiums. Generally, high-end, luxury vehicles or models loaded with advanced technology tend to attract higher insurance costs. Insurers often view these vehicles as more likely to be targets for theft or accidents, thus driving up the premiums. For instance, leasing a BMW or Mercedes-Benz will likely come with a heftier insurance bill compared to leasing a more modest Honda or Toyota.
- Luxury Features: Vehicles equipped with high-tech features often come with high repair costs. If something breaks, insurers factor in these potential costs when setting premiums.
- Safety Ratings: On the flip side, cars with excellent safety ratings may qualify for discounts on insurance premiums. If a specific make consistently performs well in crash tests, that can be a point in your favor.
Understanding these aspects will aid lessees in choosing cars that balance desirability with insurance affordability.
Personal Driving History
Your driving history is like a report card for insurers; it indicates how likely you are to file claims. An extensive history of accidents, traffic violations, or claims for damages can be a red flag, leading to higher insurance costs. Conversely, a clean driving record can help in securing more favorable rates.
- Claim History: If you’ve made several claims in the past few years, insurers will see this as a risk. They might raise your premiums significantly.
- Traffic Violations: Simple infractions, such as speeding tickets, can hurt your insurance rates. Insurers often penalize drivers for these lapses in judgment as they can correlate with more reckless driving behaviors.
In essence, maintaining a clean driving history is vital for minimizing insurance costs.
Location-Based Risks
Where you live can have a considerable impact on insurance premiums. Some areas may present higher risks due to crime rates, traffic congestion, or extreme weather conditions. For instance, urban environments, where thefts and accidents are more prevalent, typically carry higher insurance rates compared to rural settings.
- Urban vs. Rural: It's no surprise that New York City drivers might encounter steeper insurance costs compared to someone in a country setting in Vermont.
- Local Regulations and Requirements: State laws also play a part. Certain states may mandate higher levels of coverage, consequently increasing overall costs. It’s essential to be aware of local regulations governing insurance that could dictate your insurance premiums.
Understanding these geographical nuances can assist lessees in budgeting appropriately for their insurance.
Coverage Requirements by Leasing Companies
Leasing companies tend to impose specific insurance requirements that lessees must adhere to. These requirements often include minimum levels of liability coverage and comprehensive and collision coverage, sometimes even higher than state minimums. This necessity can lead to increased insurance costs.
- Liability Coverage: Leasing companies typically require higher liability limits, which service as protection for them in case of an accident.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Most plans will require lessees to have comprehensive and collision coverage. These add-ons ensure not only protection against third-party issues but also damages to the leased vehicle itself, which can substantially raise your insurance bill.
Being aware of these stipulations can prevent unexpected financial strains when leasing a vehicle.
"Insurance isn’t just about protecting your vehicle – it’s about safeguarding your investment."
Through acknowledging these key factors, individuals can strategically navigate the complexities of leasing a vehicle. Understanding how vehicle characteristics, personal history, location, and leasing company requirements influence insurance costs can lead to more informed and effective choices.
Understanding Insurance Types for Leased Cars
When leasing a vehicle, the insurance landscape can appear to be a labyrinth of options and requirements. Knowing the types of insurance available is essential for safeguarding yourself financially while meeting the stringent demands of leasing companies. This section highlights the different types of insurance that a leased car generally needs, along with the benefits these policies offer. Understanding these distinctions empowers lessees to navigate their insurance choices with confidence, ensuring not only compliance with their leasing agreements but also the protection of their assets.
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance stands as a cornerstone of any auto insurance policy, and for leased vehicles, it takes on added importance. This type of coverage is designed to protect you in the event of a liability claim, meaning if you're deemed responsible for causing an accident that injures another person or damages their property, liability insurance has your back. Typically, leasing companies will require you to carry a certain minimum level of liability coverage, often higher than state mandates. This requirement is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle; it serves as a safeguard for both you and the leasing company.
- Why it matters: Protects against financial burdens arising from personal injury or property damage claims.
- Limits matter: Many states have minimum requirements, but leaseholders should review their agreements to ascertain specific necessary limits.
It’s best to be aware that higher limits can sometimes help mitigate costs in other coverage areas, creating a more robust safety net for you as a lessee.
Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
Comprehensive and collision coverage is where things start to get a bit technical, yet it’s crucial for any strategy concerning leased vehicles. Let’s break ‘em down:
- Comprehensive Coverage: This portion of coverage kicks in if something other than a collision damages your car, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters like hail or flooding.
- Collision Coverage: This type is activated when you need to fix your leased vehicle after hitting another vehicle or object, regardless of who’s at fault.
Most leasing agents will require both types of coverage with specific minimum deductibles. This makes sense, as leasing companies want their assets protected as best as possible. If something happens to the vehicle, they want to make sure they can recover the value without a hitch.
"Leasing your vehicle doesn't mean you're renting freedom from responsibility. Proper insurance covers all your bases, ensuring peace of mind when hitting the roads."
However, in terms of overall cost, it’s worth noting that more comprehensive policies often lead to higher premiums. Finding the right balance between coverage levels and affordability is key when leasing.
Gap Insurance Considerations
When leasing a vehicle, gap insurance becomes a significant consideration. You may find that despite having comprehensive and collision coverage, you could still end up in a financial pickle if your leased car gets totaled.
Here’s where gap insurance swoops in like a guardian angel.
So, what exactly does gap insurance do? Essentially, it covers the difference between what you owe on your lease and the actual cash value of the car at the time it’s deemed a total loss. This scenario often unfolds if your vehicle is stolen or wrecked shortly after you hit the road. Given that cars tend to depreciate swiftly, you could well find yourself owing more than your insurance company will pay out.
- Key points about gap insurance:
- Protects against depreciation: Particularly crucial for leased cars, which lose value faster.
- Not always included: This type of coverage often requires a separate policy or can be added to your existing one.
By including gap insurance in your plan, you can avoid the potential headache of footing an unexpected bill.
Average Insurance Costs for Leasing
Understanding the average insurance costs associated with leased cars is essential for anyone contemplating whether to lease or purchase a vehicle. This knowledge not only guides potential leaseholders in budgeting but also empowers them to make informed choices when selecting insurance coverage. In the realm of financed vehicles, leased cars often carry unique demands regarding insurance, necessitating a tailored approach to meet both personal and leasing company requirements.
The costs involved in insuring a leased vehicle can fluctuate widely based on several factors. These include the car’s make and model, the lessee's driving history, and even the geographical location. It is pivotal that prospective lessees consider these elements carefully. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of average insurance costs, individuals and businesses alike can avoid unwelcome surprises and potentially save money in the long run.
National Averages
When it comes to the average insurance cost for leased vehicles, national statistics can shed light on what many people may expect. According to the latest data, the average annual premium for leasing cars typically ranges between $1,200 and $1,500. This figure can serve as a standard benchmark for lessees.
However, these numbers can vary significantly depending on the vehicle's specifications. For example, a luxury vehicle like a BMW X5 commands a higher premium due to its elevated risk profiles and value, often skyrocketing insurance costs beyond $2,000. Conversely, more economical cars such as the Honda Civic tend to have significantly lower premiums, likely falling below that national average.
"Car insurance isn't just a number; it's a major factor in your overall cost of leasing. Finding the right match is crucial."
This disparity highlights the importance of evaluating multiple insurance quotes tailored for specific vehicles. A thorough comparison can protect lessees from unintended financial burdens resulting from inadequate budgeting.
Comparative Analysis by Car Type
Insurance costs vary not just by the average but by the type of vehicle being leased. Different categories of cars come with distinct risk factors that play a significant part in determining premiums.
- Compact Cars such as the Toyota Corolla or Ford Fiesta usually have economical insurance rates. Their lower value and repair costs typically translate into more affordable premiums.
- SUVs can often attract higher insurance costs. For instance, a Jeep Grand Cherokee may offer more safety and utility, yet its insurability might be pricier due to its size and repair complexity.
- Luxury Vehicles, on the other hand, come with the highest insurance rates owing to their performance capabilities, high repair costs, and increased theft risks.
In addition to vehicle type, how the vehicle is operated plays a crucial role. High-performance vehicles may be perceived as higher risks, and this perception may be factored into the insurance calculation.
Temporal Trends in Leasing Costs
The landscape of leasing has shifted considerably over the past few years. Economic factors, technological advancements in vehicle models, and changes in consumer behavior have all played pivotal roles in shaping insurance costs.
In recent years, we have observed a trend towards progressively higher insurance premiums. This is in response to rising repair costs and the proliferation of advanced safety features that, paradoxically, increase vehicle value.
Additionally, the global pandemic has altered vehicle leasing trends. With many consumers embracing online services, there’s been a noticeable uptick in the leasing of vehicles across various price ranges, each generating divergent insurance obligations. These transformations underscore the necessity for ongoing vigilance and a proactive approach when choosing insurance for leased vehicles.
In summary, understanding the average costs of insurance for leased cars is not a mere academic exercise. For individuals and business owners, it’s a practical necessity that involves appraising national averages, recognizing variations based on vehicle types, and staying alert to temporal changes impacting the industry.
Regional Variations in Insurance Pricing
When it comes to insurance costs for leased vehicles, regional variations can play a massive role in the total price. It’s not just about the vehicle type or the driver’s history; the area where one resides can heavily influence what one pays. In urban centers, where traffic congestion and accident rates may be higher, insurance premiums typically ramp up. On the flip side, rural areas often see lower rates due to the reduced likelihood of accidents and lower population density.
This section explores the importance of understanding these variations. Recognizing the regional influences allows leasers to make informed decisions when it comes to budgeting for insurance and, ultimately, leasing a vehicle.
Impact of State Regulations
State regulations can significantly shape insurance pricing, often dictating necessary coverage types or minimum limits. For example, California’s strict liability laws might urge insurers to charge higher premiums given the necessity for comprehensive coverage. States that require uninsured motorist protection may also lead to increased costs reflecting the need for safer, more extensive policies.
Here are a few notable ways regulations influence pricing:
- Mandatory Coverage Requirements: Different states enforce various requirements, meaning some leasers must pay for coverage they might not otherwise need.
- Insurance Fraud Laws: States with stringent fraud regulations might experience lower premiums, thanks to reduced risk of fraudulent claims.
- High-Risk Areas: If a state has high theft or accident rates, insurance companies may raise their premiums to offset potential losses.
Urban vs. Rural Rates
The insurance cost disparity between urban and rural environments is akin to night and day. Urban areas typically face higher insurance costs due to a higher volume of automobiles, traffic incidents, and higher rates of theft. In contrast, rural regions, often characterized by less traffic and lower crime rates, can see a more relaxed insurance pricing regime.
Consider this:
- Urban Premiums:
- Rural Premiums:
- Higher rates of accidents.
- Increased potential for vehicle theft.
- Congested roads leading to a greater chance of claims.
- Low traffic and accident frequency.
- Fewer thefts due to a more close-knit community.
- Potential for discounted rates because of safer driving patterns.
"Driving in a crowded city is like trying to navigate a deer in headlights—there's always a chance of a collision."
In summary, understanding how regional dynamics affect insurance pricing offers leased vehicle drivers a critical insight. With the right knowledge, one can potentially adjust their leasing strategies and seek out insurers more attuned to their geographical realities.
Tips for Reducing Insurance Costs for Leased Cars
Finding ways to cut costs is essential for many who lease vehicles. Insurance can be one of those pesky expenses that seem to grow like weeds if not handled properly. Understanding how to effectively reduce these costs can save not just dollars, but also provide peace of mind as you navigate your leasing journey. Being strategic about your insurance can help you maximize value without breaking the bank. This section will explore practical strategies that every lessee should consider to keep insurance costs manageable.
Choosing the Right Coverage
When leasing, knowing the right coverage is crucial. Leased cars often come with specific insurance requirements set by leasing companies. They generally demand more comprehensive coverage than you might find necessary for a vehicle that you own outright.
- Liability Insurance: This is a must-have; it covers bodily injury and property damage if you’re at fault in an accident. Knowing the minimum required limits will help you avoid excess premiums.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Often required by lessors to protect the vehicle, these cover damages from accidents, vandalism, or theft. Understanding the difference between the two is key. Comprehensive covers non-collision-related damages, while collision covers damages from accidents.
- Gap Insurance Considerations: This is invaluable; it covers the difference between the car's actual cash value and the remaining amount due on your lease if the vehicle is totaled. It can sound like an extra cost, but it often proves worthwhile in the long run.
Opting for the appropriate type of coverage means you won’t pay for options you don’t need, thus keeping your costs in check.
Comparative Shopping for Quotes
Every savvy consumer knows that comparison is the name of the game. Insurance quotes can vary dramatically, even for the same coverage. It pays to shop around, as insurers will offer different rates based on your profile and the specifics of your leased vehicle. Here’s how to make the most of this strategy:
- Gather Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first one you receive. Contact various companies and get them competing for your business. Often, a simple mention that you have multiple quotes can push an insurer to offer you a better deal.
- Utilize Online Tools: Websites like en.wikipedia.org can provide platforms to compare quotes from multiple providers in one go. They’ll give you a snapshot of market rates, helping you spot the best deal.
- Engage with Agents Directly: Sometimes, talking to an agent can unearth discounts or options that online tools might miss.
By persistently comparing, you increase your chances of finding a deal that doesn’t skimp on coverage while ensuring you keep costs low.
Inquiring About Discounts
Much like finding hidden treasure, asking about discounts can lead to lower premiums. Insurers often provide discounts that go under the radar. Here are areas to explore:
- Bundling Policies: Inquire whether bundling your auto lease insurance with other types (home, life, etc.) might provide savings.
- Safe Driver Discounts: If you maintain a clean driving record, flaunt it! Many companies reward safe drivers with lower rates.
- Low Mileage Discounts: If you don’t drive much, let your insurer know. Many folks might be eligible for reduced rates if the car racked not many kilometers.
In summary, taking the initiative to uncover discounts can significantly trim your insurance expenses, making leasing a car a less costly venture.
Remember, reducing insurance costs is not a game of chance—being proactive with your choice of coverage, comparison shopping, and seeking out discounts can lead to tangible savings.
The Importance of Policy Review
When it comes to leased vehicles, understanding the average insurance costs is just the tip of the iceberg. One crucial aspect that often gets lost in the shuffle is the importance of regularly reviewing your insurance policy. Here, we delve into why this is essential and how it impacts both your finances and your peace of mind.
Regularly Assessing Insurance Needs
Insurance needs aren't set in stone. They evolve based on various factors that can change over time. This includes your driving habits, changes in your personal circumstances, or even shifts in state regulations. For example, if you were to move from a bustling city to a quiet suburb, your risk exposure would likely decrease, which might warrant a reassessment of your coverage options.
- Life Changes: Life events, such as marriage, having children, or even changes in employment can affect your insurance needs. These events may lead you to require different coverage levels.
- Market Shifts: The insurance market is dynamic. Premiums could rise or fall depending on the insurer's financial health and the general economic landscape. A good policy review might highlight the opportunity to switch to a better plan or seek a new provider that offers more competitive rates.
- Additions to Your Policy: Having bought additional accessories or modifications for your leased car may require higher coverage limits. Regular check-ins on your policy can ensure you're adequately protected without overpaying.
"A penny saved is a penny earned"—this saying often rings true when reviewing your insurance policy. Keeping an eye on changes can net you significant savings.
Understanding Policy Nuances
Diving deep into your insurance policy can uncover nuances that might influence your decisions. Many people skim over the fine print or accept terms without fully grasping their implications. Here are some key elements to consider:
- Coverage Limits vs. Premiums: Sometimes, a lower monthly premium may seem appealing, but it might come with stricter coverage limits. A policy with higher deductibles might save you money upfront but could cost you more in the event of a claim. It's essential to balance cost against coverage to suit your long-term needs.
- Exclusions: Every policy has exclusions that specify what is not covered, which can be a surprise during claim time. Knowing these exclusions can help you make informed choices or add necessary riders to your policy.
- Claims Process: Understanding the claims process specific to your insurer is crucial. Some companies may have a streamlined system, while others can be notorious for red tape and delays. This can significantly affect your experience in the unfortunate event of an accident.
By keeping these points in mind, you empower yourself to navigate the sometimes murky waters of leased car insurance with greater clarity and control. A thorough review of your policy ensures you are not left high and dry when it comes time to file a claim.
Regular policy reviews and considering your insurance needs in relation to lease terms can not only save you money but also enhance your protection. This practice ultimately equips you with the knowledge needed to make savvy decisions, safeguarding your financial well-being.
Exploring Future Trends in Auto Leasing Insurance
As the landscape of auto leasing evolves, understanding future trends in insurance is paramount for anyone considering leasing a vehicle. Not only do these trends reflect shifts in consumer behavior and technological progress, but they also offer insights that can lead to significant savings and better coverage decisions. By looking ahead, both individuals and businesses can arm themselves with the knowledge to navigate this changing terrain efficiently.
Technological Advancements in Risk Assessment
Technology is becoming increasingly vital in shaping auto leasing insurance. With the rise of telematics, insurers can now gather detailed information about driving behaviors, car usage, and more—straight from the vehicle itself. This data allows for a more tailored insurance policy that reflects individual risk rather than generalizations.
- Telematics: This system uses GPS and onboard diagnostics to track driving habits. It can penalize negligent driving, but reward responsible behavior with lower premiums.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Insurers utilize AI to dynamically assess risk based on real-time data, making policies more accurate and potentially cheaper.
- Predictive Analytics: By analyzing vast amounts of data, insurance companies can anticipate future claims and adjust their premiums accordingly, helping to keep costs in check for responsible drivers.
Implementing these technologies not only streamlines the risk assessment process but may reduce costs significantly in the long run. More importantly, it facilitates a shift towards pay-as-you-go insurance models, benefiting drivers who are less likely to file claims.
Shifting Consumer Preferences
Consumer preferences are also evolving, impacting how leasing contracts are structured and how insurance is approached. Factors influencing these changes include a growing awareness of sustainability, the demand for personalized services, and the increasing importance of digital interactions.
- Sustainability: More consumers are leaning towards eco-friendly vehicles, which can often lead to lower insurance rates due to their safer designs and lower likelihood of significant damage.
- Personalized Services: Customers increasingly seek customization in their policies. Instead of one-size-fits-all coverage, they prefer options that meet their specific needs, such as the choice between varying levels of comprehensive coverage.
- Digital Interactions: The rise of online platforms means that consumers want quick access to quotes, policy adjustments, and customer service. Insurers who adopt user-friendly online tools are likely to attract more policyholders.
Understanding these shifts will allow both insurers and consumers to adapt swiftly, ensuring they get the best coverage at the best price. The trends not only influence leasing insurance but also encourage a more engaged consumer base, leading to better-informed choices across the board.
"Future trends in auto leasing insurance aren't just about keeping up. They're about adapting smartly to ensure that both protection and affordability are not compromised."
Ending
By recognizing the impact of these technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences, anyone involved in auto leasing can make more informed decisions regarding insurance. It’s clear that the future will bring more tailored experiences and potentially better rates, making it essential to stay ahead of the curve.
