Tennessee Auto Insurance
Tennessee drivers are required to have liability coverage that meets minimum requirements set by the state. Drives who fail to comply with the law can have both their driver’s license and vehicle registration suspended along with exposure to severe penalties and fines. Drivers convicted of driving without insurance (or without the proper insurance amounts) can also face additional fines and fees. To be considered a legal driver in the state, you must have at least $25,000 in liability coverage for accidents in which one person is injured, at least $50,000 in liability coverage for accidents in which more than one person is injured, and a minimum of $15,000 in general property damage coverage.
While these amounts might seem like a lot they actually provide minimal protection in the event of a car accident, especially when you consider the high cost of car repairs and medical bills. If you opt for a policy which simply conforms to Tennessee minimum auto insurance requirements you only have liability insurance, which does not provide coverage for damages and/or injuries to you or your vehicle. Most Tennessee drivers opt for much higher limits of coverage and also purchase comprehensive and/or collision coverage.
How much is Auto Insurance in Tennessee?
The average auto insurance cost in Tennessee is approximately $1,170 per year which is about 20% lower than the national average. Drivers benefit from lower rates due to a number of factors including a very competitive auto insurance market with over 100 licensed auto insurance companies. From national brands like GEICO, Allstate and Nationwide to smaller, regional providers most Tennessee drivers can quickly find very affordable rates by shopping around. Even young drivers and other high risk profiles have a number of providers to choose from.
Who are the Best Tennessee Auto Insurance Companies?
It’s impossible to claim any auto insurance company as the best as every driver has a different profile and every insurer has a different way of calculating risk and premiums. However what you can do to find the best auto insurance rates in Tennessee is shop around and compare multiple providers. Auto Insurance is a very important purchase and the right policy can protect you and your family from personal liability in almost any accident whereas the wrong policy can expose you to great financial pain.
Tennessee DUI Laws
One surefire way to increase your auto insurance rates is to be charged with driving under the influence (DUI). Tennessee is a state that takes these charges very seriously. In addition to having higher auto insurance rates and a harder time finding a provider, drivers convicted of a DUI in Tennessee will have serious legal and financial trouble.
You can be convicted of a DUI if your blood alcohol content is even as low as .08% or if you test positive for any illegal drugs. You can also be convicted if you are found to be operating your vehicle under the influence of prescription medication, even if that medication is prescribed to you. If you are convicted of driving under the influence, even it’s your first charge, you will spend at least forty-eight hours in the county jail, or if your blood alcohol content was higher than .20%, at least one week in jail. The maximum punishment allowed for a DUI of any level is a sentence of eleven months and twenty-nine days in the county jail.
In addition to facing jail time, you will also be fined at least $350, plus any court costs. You will lose your license for an entire year, no exception, and will have to enroll in a DUI education course and/or treatment center. Obviously, a charge such as this can really take a toll on your life, your employment, and your insurance rates. Therefore, you should always avoid driving under the influence whenever possible.
A DUI conviction is not the only way to get higher auto insurance rates. Young Drivers, drivers with prior accidents or bad driving records, even drivers who experience a long lapse in coverage are all considered high risk by auto insurance companies. However with such a competitive market most people can find affordable auto insurance rates in Tennessee so start your car insurance comparison search today and compare quotes from Tennessee auto insurance companies online.
