Understanding TN Auto Insurance: What You Need to Know

Having auto insurance in Tennessee is not just a requirement but a necessity for all drivers. Whether you are a new or experienced driver, it’s important to have a basic understanding of TN auto insurance coverage, requirements, and costs. In this article, we will discuss the different types of auto insurance coverage, what state minimum requirements are, and how to get the most out of your policy.

Types of TN Auto Insurance Coverage

There are several different types of auto insurance coverage available in Tennessee. These include:

Type of Coverage
Description
Liability insurance
Covers costs associated with damages or injuries to other people or their property in an accident that you caused.
Collision insurance
Covers costs associated with damages to your own vehicle in a collision.
Comprehensive insurance
Covers costs associated with non-collision related incidents such as theft or damage caused by weather.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance
Covers costs associated with damages or injuries in an accident where the other driver is at fault but does not have adequate insurance coverage.

It’s important to note that each of these types of coverage offers different levels of protection and comes with varying premiums. Depending on your specific needs and driving habits, you may want to consider getting a combination of these types of coverage.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is the most basic type of coverage required in Tennessee. It covers the costs associated with damages or injuries to other people or their property in an accident that you caused. The minimum required liability coverage in Tennessee is:

Minimum Requirements
Description
$25,000 per person for bodily injury
Covers the cost of injuries sustained by one person in an accident.
$50,000 per accident for bodily injury
Covers the total cost of injuries sustained by all people involved in an accident.
$15,000 per accident for property damage
Covers the cost of damages to other people’s property in an accident.

It’s important to note that these are minimum requirements and some people may need more coverage depending on their specific needs.

Collision and Comprehensive Insurance

Collision and comprehensive insurance are optional types of coverage that can help cover the costs associated with damages to your own vehicle. Collision insurance covers damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. Comprehensive insurance covers damages caused by non-collision related incidents such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

If you have a lease or loan on your vehicle, collision and comprehensive insurance may be required by your lender.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance

Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance provides protection in the event that you are in an accident with a driver who does not have adequate insurance coverage. This type of coverage is particularly important in Tennessee, where a significant number of drivers are uninsured or underinsured.

Uninsured motorist coverage pays for damages and injuries resulting from an accident where the other driver is at fault but does not have any insurance coverage. Underinsured motorist coverage pays for damages and injuries that exceed the other driver’s insurance coverage.

How Much Does TN Auto Insurance Cost?

The cost of auto insurance in Tennessee varies depending on several factors including your age, driving record, type of vehicle, and coverage selected. However, the average cost of auto insurance in Tennessee is around $1,200 per year.

Keep in mind that this is just an average and your individual premium may be higher or lower based on your specific circumstances. To get the best rates, it’s important to shop around and compare rates from multiple insurance providers.

FAQ about TN Auto Insurance

What Happens if I Don’t Have Auto Insurance in Tennessee?

Driving without auto insurance in Tennessee is illegal and can result in fines, suspension of your driver’s license, and even jail time. If you are involved in an accident without insurance coverage, you will be personally responsible for covering the costs associated with damages or injuries resulting from the accident.

Can I Get an Auto Insurance Discount in Tennessee?

Yes! There are several ways to get discounts on your auto insurance in Tennessee. Some common discounts include:

  • Multi-policy discount for bundling auto and home insurance
  • Safe driver discount for maintaining a clean driving record
  • Good student discount for students who maintain a certain GPA
  • Discounts for safety features such as anti-theft devices or airbags

Be sure to speak with your insurance provider about any potential discounts that may be available to you.

What Do I Do After a Car Accident in Tennessee?

If you are involved in a car accident in Tennessee, it’s important to take the following steps:

  1. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
  2. Exchange information with the other driver including contact information, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
  3. Contact your insurance provider to report the accident.
  4. Document the accident by taking photos and notes about what happened.
  5. Cooperate with your insurance provider and the other driver’s insurance provider during the claims process.

Conclusion

Having adequate auto insurance coverage is an essential part of being a responsible driver in Tennessee. It’s important to understand the different types of coverage available, what state minimum requirements are, and how to get the most out of your policy. By following the tips and information provided in this article, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible auto insurance coverage for your needs.