How to find the best car insurance in Tennessee
For many drivers, finding the best auto insurance in Tennessee is about more than just price. When considering possible insurers, you may want to think about these factors:
Consider minimum insurance requirements in Tennessee
Tennessee law requires drivers to obtain at least a minimum amount of liability car insurance. In lieu of liability insurance, the Tennessee Department of Revenue may allow drivers to show proof of financial responsibility, which means making a cash deposit or posting a bond with the Department for $65,000.
Minimum requirements for auto insurance in Tennessee rose recently. While it may be informational to know these minimums, a licensed insurance agent will not allow you to purchase a policy that falls short of the legal minimum. Many insurance experts would suggest that you buy more than this minimum coverage in order to have more robust financial protection in the event of a covered incident.
Consider lender requirements
If you finance or lease your car, lenders often have requirements that are higher than the state minimums. Lenders usually require comprehensive and collision coverage, also known as full coverage, which may pay to repair or replace your car in a covered incident. These lender requirements are in place to protect the lender until you pay the loan or lease agreement in full. Even if you don't have a car loan or lease, these optional coverage types may help protect your financial investment in your car.
Consider your individual needs
Tennessee is vulnerable to natural disasters, such as tornadoes and other severe weather events, including hail storms and floods, which may make purchasing comprehensive insurance something to consider. Other common endorsements that may fit your needs include gap insurance for vehicles with a loan or lease and rental car reimbursement coverage for those with access to only one car.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, Tennessee had the third-highest percentage of uninsured motorists in the U.S. in 2019, with nearly 24 percent of all drivers estimated to be uninsured. To protect yourself from the financial consequences of being in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you may want to consider purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage as part of your Tennessee car insurance policy.