Car Insurance in Tennessee: Car insurance in Tennessee is crucial to protect drivers from financial liability in case of accidents, theft, or damage.
It’s legally required to carry minimum coverage to ensure safety and compliance with state laws.
Additionally, insurance provides peace of mind by covering medical expenses, property damage, and potential lawsuits, making it an essential investment for every driver.
Why You Need Car Insurance in Tennessee
Car insurance in Tennessee is essential for both legal and financial reasons. Not only is it required by law, but it also provides you with protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. Driving without insurance can lead to severe penalties, including fines and the suspension of your license.
Legal Requirements for Car Insurance in Tennessee
The state of Tennessee mandates that all drivers must have car insurance that meets the following minimum coverage requirements:
- $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person.
- $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident.
- $15,000 for property damage liability.
This ensures that if you’re at fault in an accident, your insurance will cover the damages, protecting both you and other drivers.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage in Tennessee
When selecting car insurance in Tennessee, it’s crucial to understand the different types of coverage available. Here’s a breakdown of the essential coverage options:
- Liability Coverage: Required by Tennessee law, this covers damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident. It includes both bodily injury and property damage liability.
- Collision Coverage: This pays for damages to your car resulting from a collision, regardless of fault. It’s particularly useful if your vehicle is newer or valuable.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects your car from non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters like hailstorms.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection: Offers protection if you’re in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient coverage.
Best Practices for Choosing the Right Coverage
To choose the best Tennessee car insurance, consider your vehicle’s value, your driving habits, and your financial situation. If you have a loan or lease, full coverage may be required, including collision and comprehensive. Additionally, increasing your liability limits beyond the state minimum can offer greater financial protection.
Always compare policies from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal on car insurance in Tennessee while meeting your specific coverage needs.
Having the right insurance in place ensures that you’re both legally compliant and financially protected on Tennessee roads.
How to Get the Best Car Insurance Quote in Tennessee
Getting the best car insurance quote in Tennessee can be quick and easy if you follow a few simple steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you obtain a quote, whether online or over the phone.
Step-by-Step Guide for Obtaining a Quote:
- Gather Your Information: Before requesting a quote, have key details ready, such as your driver’s license, vehicle information (make, model, year), and driving history.
- Choose a Method: You can either visit the insurance provider’s website for an online quote or call their customer service for assistance.
- Complete the Questionnaire: Answer questions about your vehicle, driving habits, and personal details. This will allow the insurer to calculate an accurate quote.
- Review the Quote: Once the quote is generated, review the coverage options and premium costs. Make sure to understand the policy’s terms.
- Compare Quotes: Don’t stop at one quote. Comparing offers from multiple providers ensures you get the best deal.
Factors That Influence Car Insurance Rates:
Several factors affect your car insurance rates, including:
- Age: Younger drivers often face higher premiums due to their inexperience.
- Driving History: A clean driving record leads to lower rates, while accidents or tickets can increase premiums.
- Vehicle Type: The make, model, and year of your car impact insurance costs.
- Location: Urban areas with higher traffic may result in higher rates compared to rural regions.
Benefits of Comparing Quotes from Different Providers:
Comparing quotes from various providers helps you find the most competitive rates and coverage. Each insurer evaluates risk differently, so shopping around can save you money and ensure you get the coverage you need.
Top Car Insurance Providers in Tennessee
When searching for the best car insurance in Tennessee, it’s important to find a provider that suits your needs and budget. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top-rated car insurance companies operating in the state.
1. State Farm
State Farm is a well-known national insurance provider, consistently rated highly for its competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage options. With multiple offices across Tennessee, they offer personalized services, including localized discounts for safe driving, student drivers, and multiple vehicles.
2. GEICO
GEICO is another top-rated insurer in Tennessee, praised for its affordability and excellent customer service. Tennessee drivers can take advantage of GEICO’s localized discounts, including savings for military members, federal employees, and good drivers.
3. Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee
Farm Bureau Insurance is a Tennessee-based company, offering specialized coverage tailored to the state’s drivers. Known for its customer-focused approach, Farm Bureau provides localized discounts and perks that larger, national companies may not offer. Membership to the Tennessee Farm Bureau can also unlock additional savings.
4. Progressive
Progressive is a popular choice for drivers in Tennessee due to its flexible coverage options and user-friendly mobile app. Progressive offers multiple discounts for bundling home and auto policies, as well as savings for drivers who go paperless or maintain a clean driving record.
5. USAA
If you’re a member of the military or have a military family background, USAA is an excellent option. With a reputation for exceptional customer service and competitive rates, USAA provides discounts to Tennessee’s military families, making it a top choice for those who qualify.
6. Allstate
Allstate is another major player in Tennessee’s insurance market. They offer various coverage options, from liability to full coverage, and discounts for good drivers, multiple policies, and even enrolling in their safe driving programs.
Importance of Getting a Free Quote
It’s crucial to compare quotes from these top insurance providers to find the best deal. Rates can vary based on your driving history, vehicle type, and location in Tennessee. Most companies offer free quotes online, allowing you to see which provider offers the most affordable and comprehensive coverage for your needs. Take advantage of this service to ensure you’re getting the best deal on your car insurance in Tennessee.
Cheap liability insurance in Tennessee
Liability insurance is sometimes referred to as state minimum coverage— it describes the lowest amount of coverage you can carry while still complying with state laws. Becacuse of this, it is the cheapest car insurance you will find.
The average 6-month premium for liability insurance in Tennessee is $300. 46% of Tennessee drivers carry liability-only coverage. The following table displays car insurance quotes in Tennessee for liability insurance.
Liability insurance quotes in TN
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Farmers | $177 | $29 |
| USAA | $211 | $35 |
| Travelers | $212 | $35 |
| GEICO | $247 | $41 |
| Progressive | $325 | $54 |
| State Farm | $329 | $55 |
| Allstate | $408 | $68 |
Cheap full coverage insurance in Tennessee
If you opt for better coverage, you can choose a policy with comprehensive and collision, which will protect against the costs of car accidents, theft, vandalism, or weather incidents. But better coverage comes with a cost: the average premium for full coverage insurance in Tennessee is $1000 for a 6-month policy. According to our data, 54% of Zebra customers in Tennessee choose full coverage insurance.
The following displays monthly and 6-month rates from the top insurance providers in Tennessee with full coverage.
Full coverage quotes in TN
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $622 | $104 |
| USAA | $726 | $121 |
| Tennessee Farmers | $729 | $121 |
| GEICO | $877 | $146 |
| Nationwide | $1,157 | $193 |
| State Farm | $1,205 | $201 |
| Progressive | $1,343 | $224 |
Best car insurance companies in Tennessee— honorable mentions
Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee is our top pick, but there are many other reputable insurance companies we would recommend for Tennessee drivers. The following companies were chosen based on JD Power scores in the region, cost, and The Zebra’s Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Best car insurance companies in TN
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Auto-Owners | $745 | $124 |
| Erie | $846 | $141 |
| Westfield | $876 | $146 |
Car insurance in popular Tennessee cities
Car insurance is priced by ZIP code, so where you live in Tennessee has a significant impact on rates. Typically, cities with higher population densities see more expensive average rates. Auto insurance quotes in Tennessee’s biggest cities
| City | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $1,300 | $217 |
| Nashville | $1,033 | $172 |
| Clarksville | $992 | $165 |
| Chattanooga | $978 | $163 |
| Knoxville | $970 | $162 |
Car insurance price trends in Tennessee
The average cost of car insurance in Tennessee has experienced a steady rise since 2020. Following the initial impacts of the pandemic, premiums hovered around $1,300 per year in 2020 and 2021. However, 2022 brought a notable surge in rates, reflecting broader national trends. Costs across companies have stayed at elevated levels since, which is consistent with the U.S. national averages over the last three years.
Rising costs are due to inflation, increases in medical and repair costs, and more frequent car accidents due to a high concentration of motorists on the road. Tennessee car insurance rate trends since 2015
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Tennessee | Yearly Change — Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $1,668 | $175 |
| 2023 | $1,493 | -$25 |
| 2022 | $1,518 | $256 |
| 2021 | $1,262 | $4 |
| 2020 | $1,258 | -$76 |
| 2019 | $1,334 | -$172 |
| 2018 | $1,506 | $190 |
| 2017 | $1,316 | $144 |
| 2016 | $1,172 | $76 |
| 2015 | $1,096 | $137 |
Tennessee auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
Your driving history plays a big part in how much you pay. Insurance companies look for previous accidents for which you have been at fault to gauge the level of risk you pose as a customer. An at-fault accident in recent years could see your car insurance rates increase by as much as 41% per year.
Best insurance companies in TN after at-fault accident
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Farmers | $729 | $121 |
| Travelers | $853 | $142 |
| USAA | $1,039 | $173 |
| GEICO | $1,414 | $236 |
| State Farm | $1,455 | $243 |
| Allstate | $2,056 | $343 |
| Progressive | $2,086 | $348 |
Zebra Tip: Don’t forget about claims satisfaction
While we all hope to never use our insurance, having a smooth experience when needed is essential. In our 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey, we measured the satisfaction of those who filed claims. Erie and USAA stood out, making each a strong contender for residents of Tennessee.
Any number of violations on your driving record will cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket. This is because your insurance company now sees you as more of a liability, even if the accident wasn’t your fault. The more serious the infraction, the higher the rate hike you will see.
Check out the table below for average rate increases by violation type.
Tennessee auto insurance quotes by violation
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|
| None | $1,999 | $0 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $2,017 | $18 |
| One Med/PIP claim | $2,030 | $31 |
| One comp claim | $2,048 | $49 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $2,072 | $73 |
| Two comp claims | $2,081 | $82 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $2,302 | $303 |
| Failure to show documents | $2,344 | $345 |
| Child safety restraint | $2,350 | $351 |
| Driving without lights | $2,350 | $351 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $2,386 | $387 |
| Driving with expired registration | $2,388 | $389 |
| Cell phone violation | $2,390 | $391 |
| Driving too slowly | $2,394 | $395 |
| Speeding in school zone | $2,394 | $395 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $2,404 | $405 |
| Texting while driving | $2,406 | $407 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $2,413 | $414 |
| Failure to yield | $2,415 | $416 |
| Following too closely | $2,415 | $416 |
| Illegal turn | $2,417 | $418 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $2,434 | $435 |
| Improper passing | $2,437 | $438 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $2,442 | $443 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $2,480 | $481 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,539 | $540 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $2,577 | $578 |
| Passing school bus | $2,585 | $586 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $2,739 | $740 |
| Open container | $2,764 | $765 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $2,977 | $978 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $2,977 | $978 |
| Reckless driving | $3,755 | $1,756 |
| Racing | $3,765 | $1,765 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $3,865 | $1,866 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $3,935 | $1,936 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $4,002 | $2,003 |
| DUI | $4,004 | $2,005 |
Cheap auto insurance for teens and young drivers in Tennessee
Young drivers — aged between 16 and 25 — pay very high car insurance rates, with those aged 16 to 19 paying the most expensive premiums of all. Because of the risk presented by inexperienced drivers, teen drivers pay more than three times the national average for car insurance. In Tennessee, teen drivers pay especially high rates: $6,652 per year — 233% more than a typical Tennessee driver.
Tennessee car insurance for teens
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $1,759 | $293 |
| Tennessee Farmers | $2,215 | $369 |
| USAA | $2,350 | $392 |
| GEICO | $2,715 | $452 |
| State Farm | $4,144 | $691 |
| Allstate | $4,283 | $714 |
| Progressive | $6,093 | $1,015 |
Tips for Saving on Car Insurance in Tennessee
When it comes to car insurance in Tennessee, there are several strategies you can use to lower your premium. By taking advantage of these tips, you can save money without sacrificing coverage:
Safe Driving Discounts
Insurance companies reward safe drivers. If you have a clean driving record free of accidents and traffic violations, you’re likely eligible for a discount. Some insurers even offer usage-based insurance programs that track your driving habits and reward safe behavior with reduced rates.
Multi-Car or Bundled Policy Discounts
If you insure multiple vehicles or bundle your car insurance with other policies like homeowners or renters insurance, you can save significantly. Many providers offer a discount when you have more than one type of policy with them, lowering your overall insurance costs.
Defensive Driving Course Discounts
Completing a defensive driving course can make you eligible for discounts. This shows insurers that you’re committed to driving safely and responsibly. Many insurance companies offer this discount, especially for older drivers or those with minor traffic violations.
Low-Mileage Discounts
If you don’t drive often, you could qualify for a low-mileage discount. Driving fewer miles reduces the risk of accidents, and insurers are likely to reward this behavior with lower premiums.
Good Student Discounts
Many insurers offer discounts for young drivers who are also good students. If you or your child maintains a high GPA, this could result in a lower rate. This discount is typically available to full-time students under a certain age.
Other Discounts
Some companies offer additional discounts for things like installing anti-theft devices in your car, enrolling in automatic payments, or being a loyal customer. Always ask your provider what discounts are available to you.
By using these tips and regularly reviewing your insurance policy, you can ensure you’re getting the best deal on car insurance in Tennessee.
What to Do After Getting a Free Car Insurance Quote in Tennessee
Once you receive your free car insurance quote in Tennessee, it’s important to take a few additional steps before making your decision. Here’s how to evaluate your options and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.
1. Evaluating Quotes Based on Coverage and Price
When comparing car insurance quotes, don’t just focus on the price. Look at the coverage details to ensure you’re adequately protected. Tennessee has minimum liability requirements, but it’s worth considering more comprehensive options to cover scenarios like accidents, theft, or weather damage. Ask yourself: Does this policy cover all the potential risks I might face? It’s also helpful to compare the deductibles and coverage limits. A lower price may seem appealing, but it could mean higher out-of-pocket costs later.
2. How to Read the Fine Print and Ensure You’re Fully Covered
Reading the fine print is crucial when selecting your car insurance. Make sure you understand all the terms, exclusions, and limitations. Check for any hidden fees or restrictions that could affect your coverage. For instance, some policies may not cover damages caused by uninsured drivers or natural disasters unless you opt for additional coverage. Be thorough in reviewing what’s included, and don’t hesitate to ask your insurance provider for clarification on anything unclear.
3. Deciding on Additional Optional Coverages
Tennessee car insurance policies often offer optional coverages, such as roadside assistance, rental car coverage, or gap insurance. While these extras may increase your premium, they can provide peace of mind in case of an emergency. For example, if you frequently drive long distances, roadside assistance can be a lifesaver. Evaluate your driving habits and decide if these optional coverages are worth the investment for added protection.
However, taking these steps after receiving your quote will help you make an informed decision and secure the right car insurance policy for your needs in Tennessee.
FAQs About Car Insurance in Tennessee
1. What is the minimum car insurance requirement in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, drivers must carry liability insurance with at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. These are the minimum legal requirements to ensure you can cover damages in the event of an accident.
2. How much does car insurance cost in Tennessee?
The cost of car insurance in Tennessee varies based on factors such as your driving history, location, and vehicle type. On average, Tennessee drivers pay around $1,300 annually for full coverage, though discounts and customized plans can make rates lower.
3. What are the penalties for driving without insurance in Tennessee?
If caught driving without insurance in Tennessee, you may face penalties like fines starting at $300, suspension of your driver’s license, and vehicle registration. Repeat offenders could face even more severe consequences, including increased fines and vehicle impoundment.
4. Can I get car insurance with a suspended license in Tennessee?
Getting car insurance with a suspended license in Tennessee is possible, but it may be more expensive. Some insurers offer SR-22 insurance, which is often required for high-risk drivers needing proof of insurance after certain violations like DUI or driving without insurance.
5. Does Tennessee offer any car insurance discounts?
Yes, many insurers in Tennessee offer discounts for various factors, such as having a clean driving record, bundling policies (e.g., home and auto), and being a safe driver with advanced safety features in your vehicle. Be sure to ask your insurer about the specific discounts available.
6. What should I do after a car accident in Tennessee?
After a car accident in Tennessee, ensure everyone’s safety first, then report the accident to the police and gather important information, including the other driver’s insurance details. Tennessee is an at-fault state, so the driver responsible for the accident will be liable for damages.
7. How can I lower my car insurance premium in Tennessee?
To lower your car insurance premium in Tennessee, consider raising your deductible, maintaining a good driving record, and taking advantage of discounts offered by your insurer. Shopping around and comparing quotes from different insurers can also help you find more affordable coverage.
Conclusion
Car insurance in Tennessee is essential for protecting your vehicle, your finances, and ensuring compliance with state laws. It provides coverage in case of accidents, theft, and unexpected incidents, saving you from potentially high out-of-pocket expenses. Taking the time to find the right car insurance policy can help you avoid unnecessary costs while giving you peace of mind on the road.
Getting a free car insurance quote is the first step toward finding affordable coverage that meets your needs. By comparing quotes from different providers, you can easily spot the best deals and save money. Don’t wait – get your free car insurance quote today and start saving on your premiums!
