Tennessee does not require it’s drivers to have car insurance in order to register their cars. Instead, the state has chosen to operate under the tort system, which means if you are responsible for a car accident and you do not have any car insurance, you can be held liable for the damages to the car(s) you hit in addition to any medical costs the person or persons in the car(s) have suffered.
It is important to note the different kinds of insurances available to drivers before looking for car insurance. There is liability insurance for property damage, meaning any damage you caused to another person’s property is covered and there is also liability insurance for bodily injury, which covers the medical expenses for any accident you are liable for. You may elect to only have one, however it is recommended you have both for ultimate protection, especially if there are younger drivers in your household.
When you are ready to start looking for car insurance, there are several big insurance companies, such as Nationwide, Progressive and Geico that offer quotes on the internet. Some even offer discounts for good driving records or having additional safety features on your car, such as anti-locking breaks and cruise control. There also companies that offer to lower your rates the longer you go without an accident.
There are also many smaller companies you can compare rates with. It is not always necessary to choose a major company to have the best insurance coverage at the best price. Smaller, local companies can often offer the same coverage at a much lower cost. It is always a good idea to check with as many insurance companies as you have the option and time to so you can be sure to find the cheapest rate available.
Internet shopping offers consumers a fast, easy and private way to compare rates, read testimonials and decide which insurance offers the best service for each individual driver at the most convenient price. When you are ready to meet with a representative of a company, you can usually find a phone number for several local offices to call and set up an appointment.
