Auto Insurance Memphis: Everything You Need to Know

Auto insurance is a crucial aspect of owning a car in Memphis, Tennessee. It not only provides financial protection in case of accidents or theft, but it is also required by law. If you are a driver in Memphis, you need to understand how auto insurance works and what coverage options are available to you.

What is Auto Insurance?

Auto insurance is a contract between the policyholder and the insurance company, where the policyholder pays a premium and the insurance company agrees to pay for damages or losses resulting from an accident, theft, or other covered events.

In Memphis, the state requires all drivers to have liability insurance coverage. Liability insurance covers damages and injuries that you may cause to others in an accident.

What Does Liability Insurance Cover?

Liability insurance covers damages or injuries that you may cause to others in an accident you are found responsible for. These damages can include:

Damages Covered by Liability Insurance
Definition
Property Damage
Covers damages to another person’s property caused by you in an accident
Bodily Injury
Covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by you in an accident

Liability insurance does not cover damages to your vehicle or injuries you may sustain in an accident. For this reason, you may want to consider additional coverage options, such as collision and comprehensive coverage.

Additional Coverage Options

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays for damages to your vehicle in case of a collision with another car or object. It covers repairs or replacement of your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault. Collision coverage is typically required if you finance or lease your vehicle.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage pays for damages to your vehicle caused by non-collision events, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. It also covers damages from collisions with animals. Comprehensive coverage is optional but highly recommended.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage pays for damages and injuries caused by a driver who is either uninsured or underinsured. This coverage is essential in Memphis, where a high percentage of drivers are uninsured or have minimal coverage.

Factors Affecting Auto Insurance Rates in Memphis

Auto insurance rates in Memphis are affected by several factors, including:

Factors Affecting Auto Insurance Rates
Age
Gender
Driving Record
Type of Vehicle
Location

Younger drivers and males tend to have higher rates due to their higher risk of accidents. A clean driving record and owning a safer vehicle can help lower your insurance rates. Living in a high-crime or high-traffic area can also increase your rates.

FAQ

What is the minimum auto insurance coverage required in Memphis?

Memphis requires all drivers to have liability insurance coverage with minimum limits of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident.

Can I drop my auto insurance coverage if I don’t drive my car often?

No, you cannot drop your auto insurance coverage unless you surrender your vehicle’s license plates and registration to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

What happens if I don’t have auto insurance in Memphis?

If you are caught driving without insurance in Memphis, you may face fines, suspension of your driver’s license, and impoundment of your vehicle. You may also be held personally liable for damages and injuries caused in an accident.

How can I find affordable auto insurance in Memphis?

To find affordable auto insurance in Memphis, you can compare quotes from multiple insurance companies, raise your deductibles, and qualify for discounts such as safe driver, multi-car, and good student discounts. It’s also important to maintain a clean driving record and keep your credit score in good standing.

How often should I review my auto insurance policy?

You should review your auto insurance policy annually or whenever there are significant changes in your life or driving habits, such as getting married, moving to a new location, or buying a new car.

Auto insurance is an essential aspect of driving in Memphis. By understanding how it works and what coverage options are available to you, you can protect yourself and your vehicle in case of accidents or theft. Compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the best rates and coverage for your needs.