Best Car Insurance in Tennessee: Car insurance in Tennessee is essential for protecting your vehicle and meeting state requirements.
Choosing the right provider ensures you get the best coverage at affordable rates. With numerous options available, it’s important to compare policies to find the best fit.
Get free quotes now to make an informed decision on your car insurance.
Why Do You Need Car Insurance in Tennessee?
Here’s an overview of Tennessee’s car insurance requirements and the importance of having the right coverage.
Tennessee’s Car Insurance Requirements
In Tennessee, all drivers must meet certain legal car insurance requirements. The state operates under a “fault” system, meaning the driver found at fault in an accident is responsible for covering damages. This makes having adequate car insurance crucial to avoid paying out of pocket for medical expenses, vehicle repairs, or legal fees.
Legal Minimums and Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
Tennessee law mandates that all drivers carry the following minimum liability coverage:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 for property damage per accident
Driving without insurance in Tennessee can result in serious penalties, including:
- Fines: Up to $300
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Impoundment of your vehicle
- Higher insurance premiums in the future
Types of Car Insurance Coverage Available
While Tennessee requires liability insurance, there are several additional types of coverage available to ensure more comprehensive protection:
- Collision Coverage: Covers the cost of repairs to your vehicle if you’re at fault in an accident.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Provides financial protection if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who has no or insufficient insurance.
- Medical Payments Coverage: Helps pay for medical expenses after an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
However, having the right car insurance in Tennessee is not only a legal requirement but also a smart way to safeguard yourself from financial hardships due to accidents or unforeseen events.
How to Find the Best Car Insurance in Tennessee
When searching for the best car insurance in Tennessee, it’s important to focus on a few key factors that will help you find the right policy for your needs. Here are some tips to guide you:
1. Coverage Options
Every driver has different coverage needs, so it’s essential to understand what each policy offers. Look for a car insurance policy that includes essential coverages like liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. In Tennessee, the minimum liability coverage is required by law, but you may want to consider additional coverage to better protect yourself in case of an accident.
2. Pricing
Insurance premiums can vary widely depending on your driving history, vehicle type, and location. It’s important to get quotes from multiple insurers to compare pricing. While affordability is crucial, make sure the policy you’re considering provides adequate coverage. Be cautious of very low-priced policies, as they may come with limited coverage or high deductibles.
3. Customer Service
A good insurance company will offer responsive and helpful customer service. Whether you need to file a claim or simply ask a question, the quality of customer service can make a significant difference in your experience. Check for companies with a reputation for excellent customer support and easy claims processes.
4. Using Comparison Tools
Online comparison tools can help you quickly assess different car insurance options in Tennessee. These tools allow you to input your information once and receive quotes from multiple insurers, making it easier to compare coverage options, pricing, and customer service. Utilizing these tools can save you time and ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
5. Read Customer Reviews and Check Financial Stability
Before choosing a car insurance provider, take the time to read customer reviews. Real-life experiences from other policyholders can give you insight into the company’s claims process, customer service, and overall satisfaction. Additionally, check the financial stability of the insurance company through rating agencies like A.M. Best. A financially stable insurer is more likely to pay out claims promptly and handle large claims efficiently.
By considering these factors, using comparison tools, and doing your research, you can find the best car insurance in Tennessee that fits both your budget and your coverage needs.
Top 10 Car Insurance Providers in Tennessee
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 car insurance companies based on their coverage options, affordability, and customer satisfaction. Each provider offers unique features and perks tailored to Tennessee drivers.
1. State Farm
State Farm is one of the most popular car insurance providers in Tennessee, known for its reliable customer service and broad coverage options. They offer a wide range of discounts, including multi-policy and safe driving discounts.
Unique feature: Personal service with local agents.
2. GEICO
GEICO is well-known for its affordable rates and easy-to-use online platform. They offer flexible coverage options and have one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in Tennessee.
Unique feature: Competitive pricing with discounts for good drivers and federal employees.
3. Progressive
Progressive stands out for its innovative tools like the Name Your Price tool, which allows you to customize a policy that fits your budget. They offer a variety of coverage options, including roadside assistance and rental reimbursement.
Unique feature: Snapshot program rewards safe driving.
4. Allstate
Allstate offers a combination of comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service. They provide several unique coverage options, including accident forgiveness and new car replacement.
Unique feature: Deductible rewards for safe drivers.
5. Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee
Farm Bureau Insurance is a local favorite with personalized service and competitive rates. Their policies are tailored to the needs of Tennessee residents, and they offer farm vehicle insurance in addition to standard coverage.
Unique feature: Exclusive local focus with specialized coverage for farm vehicles.
6. USAA
USAA provides excellent coverage and rates, but it’s exclusive to military members and their families. Their policies are highly rated for customer satisfaction and coverage options.
Unique feature: Military-specific discounts and benefits.
7. Nationwide
Nationwide offers a variety of coverage options, including collision, comprehensive, and personal injury protection. They also provide great benefits like accident forgiveness and vanishing deductible programs.
Unique feature: SmartRide program rewards safe drivers with discounts.
8. Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual allows you to customize your policy with a variety of add-ons, including better car replacement and roadside assistance. They also offer discounts for bundling your policies.
Unique feature: Better car replacement coverage.
9. Travelers
Travelers is known for its flexible coverage options and strong customer service. They offer special programs like IntelliDrive, which tracks driving habits to provide discounts for safe driving.
Unique feature: IntelliDrive safe driving discount program.
10. Auto-Owners Insurance
Auto-Owners Insurance provides competitive pricing and a wide range of coverage options. They are known for their reliable claims service and customer satisfaction.
Unique feature: Personal, local service through independent agents.
Comparison of Price, Coverage, and Customer Satisfaction
| Provider | Average Price (Monthly) | Coverage Options | Customer Satisfaction (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $115 | Liability, comprehensive, collision | 4.5 |
| GEICO | $110 | Full coverage, uninsured motorist | 4.7 |
| Progressive | $120 | Customizable coverage | 4.3 |
| Allstate | $130 | Accident forgiveness, new car replacement | 4.4 |
| Farm Bureau Insurance | $100 | Standard, farm vehicle | 4.6 |
| USAA | $105 | Military-specific | 4.8 |
| Nationwide | $125 | SmartRide, vanishing deductible | 4.2 |
| Liberty Mutual | $140 | Better car replacement, roadside assistance | 4.4 |
| Travelers | $135 | IntelliDrive, flexible coverage | 4.3 |
| Auto-Owners Insurance | $110 | Personal, local service | 4.6 |
By comparing the prices, coverage options, and customer satisfaction scores, you can choose the provider that best fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for the most affordable option or top-tier coverage, these companies offer something for every Tennessee driver.
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 |
How to Get a Free Car Insurance Quote in Tennessee
Getting a free car insurance quote in Tennessee is easy and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you request quotes and find the best rates:
1. Gather Your Information
Before you start, make sure you have the necessary details ready. You’ll need:
- Your driver’s license number
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Current insurance policy information (if applicable)
- Driving history, including any accidents or tickets
Having this information on hand will help speed up the process and ensure you get accurate quotes.
2. Use Online Tools to Compare Quotes
Many insurance companies offer online quote tools that allow you to quickly compare rates. Simply visit the websites of top car insurance providers in Tennessee and enter your information. Some popular sites that offer free car insurance quotes include:
- Geico
- Progressive
- State Farm
You can also use third-party comparison tools like The Zebra or Compare.com. These platforms allow you to compare multiple quotes from different insurers in one place, making it easier to find the best deal.
3. Contact Insurance Providers Directly
In addition to using online tools, you can also contact insurance companies directly by phone or visiting their local offices in Tennessee. Speaking with an agent allows you to ask questions about coverage options, discounts, and any special rates that may apply to your situation.
4. Compare Quotes and Choose the Best Option
After gathering multiple quotes, take time to review the coverage details and pricing. Consider factors like deductibles, coverage limits, and any additional features offered. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—make sure the coverage meets your needs.
5. Finalize Your Decision
Once you’ve compared quotes and found the best option, you can purchase your policy online or through a local agent. Be sure to double-check all the details and ask about any available discounts, such as good driver or bundling discounts.
By using these steps and leveraging online tools and direct contact with providers, you can easily get free car insurance quotes in Tennessee and find the right policy for your needs.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates in Tennessee
Several factors impact how much you pay for car insurance in Tennessee. These include your age, driving history, the type of vehicle you drive, and where you live. Let’s explore how these elements influence pricing and what you can do to reduce your premium.
1. Age
Younger drivers, particularly those under 25, typically face higher insurance rates. Insurers consider younger drivers higher-risk due to their inexperience behind the wheel. On the other hand, drivers between 30 and 65 tend to enjoy lower premiums, as they are generally considered safer and more experienced.
Tip: If you’re a young driver, consider taking a defensive driving course to prove your competence and potentially lower your premium.
2. Driving History
Your driving record plays a significant role in determining your insurance costs. Drivers with a history of accidents or traffic violations will likely pay more for coverage. Insurers see these individuals as higher risk, which is reflected in their rates.
Tip: Maintaining a clean driving record over time will help reduce your insurance costs, as many insurers offer safe driver discounts.
3. Type of Vehicle
The make and model of your car also affect your insurance rate. High-end luxury vehicles, sports cars, or cars with expensive repair costs often come with higher premiums. In contrast, standard, safe, and affordable vehicles generally have lower insurance costs.
Tip: When purchasing a vehicle, consider choosing one with high safety ratings or low theft rates to lower your insurance premium.
4. Location
Where you live in Tennessee can influence your car insurance rates. Urban areas like Nashville and Memphis tend to have higher premiums due to increased traffic, higher crime rates, and more accidents. In contrast, rural areas often have lower insurance costs due to reduced traffic and lower crime rates.
Tip: Consider using a garage or secure parking to lower the risk of theft, potentially lowering your premium.
How to Lower Your Car Insurance Premium
To save money on your car insurance in Tennessee, here are some additional tips:
- Bundle your policies: Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle your auto insurance with home or renters insurance.
- Increase your deductible: Raising your deductible can lower your monthly premiums, though be sure to choose an amount you can comfortably pay out of pocket if needed.
- Ask about discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for things like being a good student, taking a defensive driving course, or having certain safety features in your car.
By understanding these factors and applying the right strategies, you can reduce your car insurance premium and save money while maintaining adequate coverage.
FAQs About Car Insurance in Tennessee
1. What is the minimum car insurance required in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires drivers to carry liability insurance with at least the following limits: $25,000 for injury or death per person, $50,000 for injury or death per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. This is commonly referred to as the 25/50/15 rule. It’s essential to maintain this coverage to avoid penalties.
2. What happens if I drive without insurance in Tennessee?
Driving without insurance in Tennessee can result in hefty fines, license suspension, and even the impoundment of your vehicle. Additionally, if you’re involved in an accident while uninsured, you could face lawsuits or be personally liable for damages.
3. Can I use digital proof of insurance in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee allows drivers to show digital proof of insurance. You can present your insurance card using a smartphone or other electronic devices during a traffic stop or accident.
4. How can I lower my car insurance premiums in Tennessee?
There are several ways to reduce your car insurance premiums in Tennessee, including maintaining a clean driving record, bundling insurance policies, raising your deductible, and taking advantage of discounts for safe drivers, students, or military members.
5. Is Tennessee a no-fault state for car insurance?
No, Tennessee is an at-fault state. This means that the driver found responsible for causing an accident is liable for all damages, including medical expenses and vehicle repairs.
6. Are there any specific car insurance discounts available in Tennessee?
Yes, many insurers offer discounts specific to Tennessee drivers. You may qualify for discounts if you’re a good driver, a student with good grades, or if you bundle your car insurance with home or renter’s insurance. Additionally, military personnel may be eligible for special discounts.
7. What should I do if I’m in a car accident in Tennessee?
First, ensure everyone is safe, then exchange insurance information with the other driver. It’s crucial to report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. In Tennessee, you must file a report if the damages exceed $400 or if anyone is injured or killed.
8. How do I choose the best car insurance provider in Tennessee?
When choosing a car insurance provider in Tennessee, consider factors like customer reviews, financial strength, available discounts, and customer service quality. It’s also wise to compare quotes from multiple insurers to ensure you’re getting the best coverage at a competitive price.
Conclusion
Finding the best car insurance provider in Tennessee is essential for protecting yourself and your vehicle while also securing the best rates. By taking the time to research and compare policies, you can ensure you get the coverage you need at a price that fits your budget.
Whether you’re a first-time car owner or looking to switch providers, the tips and tools we’ve discussed will help you make an informed decision.
Don’t wait—use the resources provided to get a free quote today and find the perfect car insurance plan for your needs!
