Can I Drive Without Insurance in Tennessee?

You may assume that a car you leave parked in your private driveway for prolonged periods may go without auto insurance coverage. However, state law rules that every car that is registered under your name must also be covered by a basic or standard auto insurance policy under your name. There are little to no exceptions to this rule, and any violations may result in serious consequences. Continue reading to learn whether you can legally drive without insurance and how one of the experienced Montgomery County criminal defense lawyers at Fendley and Etson can help you honestly avoid any criminal punishments.

Is it legally acceptable to drive without insurance in the state of Tennessee?

You must understand that driving without auto insurance is illegal in almost every state, including the state of Tennessee. This means that you must have your car insured from the moment you drive it off a dealership’s lot.

What’s more, the type and amount of auto insurance you carry matters. That is, Tennessee law holds that your basic or standard auto insurance policy must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Your basic or standard auto insurance policy must carry at least $25,000 worth of bodily injury liability coverage per person.
• Your basic or standard auto insurance policy must carry at least $50,000 worth of bodily injury liability coverage per accident.
• Your basic or standard auto insurance policy must carry at least $15,000 worth of property damage liability coverage overall.

What happens if I am caught driving without insurance?

Say, for instance, that you get involved in an auto accident that was prompted by your reckless driving. Or, say that you get pulled over on account of your reckless driving. In either case, a law enforcement officer may ask for proof of your auto insurance policy.

If you carry auto insurance but are unable to produce proof of it, then you may be charged with a Class C misdemeanor. But if you do not carry auto insurance at all, then you may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. Without further ado, the primary criminal consequences that you may be subjected to are as follows:

• Failing to provide proof of auto insurance:
  • A coverage failure fee of $25.
  • A license and registration restoration fee of $65.
  • A driver’s license suspension, until 45 days after proof of auto insurance is provided.
• Driving without auto insurance:
  • A fine of $300.
  • A license and registration restoration fee of $65.
  • A driver’s license suspension, until auto insurance is purchased and a driver’s license examination is retaken.

If I drive without insurance, can it impact my record and future insurance rates?

Driving without auto insurance in Tennessee can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond immediate fines and legal penalties. If you are caught driving without insurance, this offense will be recorded on your driving record, which could impact your financial stability and future insurance rates.

First, having a conviction for driving without insurance on your record can be a red flag to insurance companies. Most insurers view uninsured driving as a sign of higher risk. As a result, they may increase your premiums significantly or, in some cases, deny coverage altogether.

When insurance companies assess your risk as a driver, they consider factors like past offenses and compliance with the law. A lapse in insurance coverage could indicate a potential for future claims, leading to higher costs for your policy.

Moreover, some insurance companies may label you as a “high-risk driver” if you’re caught driving without insurance, particularly if it’s not your first offense. Being categorized as high-risk often comes with much higher premiums or even restrictions on the types of coverage available to you. This classification can remain on your record for several years, making it more difficult and costly to obtain adequate insurance coverage.

Additionally, a lack of insurance can affect your credit score in some cases. If you face fines and other financial penalties and struggle to pay them, the unpaid debts could be sent to collections, which would negatively impact your credit report. A lower credit score can further complicate your efforts to secure affordable insurance rates, as many insurers factor in credit history when calculating premiums.

What should I do if I’m caught driving without insurance in Tennessee?

If you drive without insurance and get caught, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize the potential consequences and take steps to rectify the situation. Here are the steps you should consider:

1. Obtain Insurance Immediately: The first and most crucial step is to purchase an auto insurance policy that meets Tennessee’s minimum coverage requirements. The sooner you have valid insurance, the sooner you can begin addressing any penalties or legal issues.
2. Gather Necessary Documentation: Make sure to keep your new insurance documents readily available. This includes your insurance card, policy number, and contact information for your insurance provider. You will need these documents to present proof of insurance to the court and the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS).
3. Pay Fines and Fees: If you have been issued a ticket or citation for driving without insurance, it’s important to pay any fines promptly. In Tennessee, failing to pay fines can lead to additional penalties, including late fees and even a possible warrant for your arrest. Remember that paying these fines does not necessarily mean you are admitting guilt, but it does resolve the financial component of the infraction.
4. Attend Court if Required: Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be required to appear in court. If so, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified criminal defense lawyer who can help present your case, potentially negotiate reduced penalties, or argue for the dismissal of charges based on the specifics of your situation.
5. Comply with the Requirements for License Reinstatement: If your driver’s license has been suspended due to driving without insurance, you will need to meet all reinstatement requirements to regain your driving privileges. This typically includes paying a reinstatement fee, providing proof of insurance, and possibly retaking a driver’s license examination.
6. Consider Legal Representation: An experienced criminal defense lawyer can provide guidance on the best course of action, represent you in court, and work to reduce or dismiss any charges where possible. In some cases, a lawyer might help you negotiate with the state to minimize the financial and legal repercussions of driving without insurance.

If you have further questions or would like assistance facing this or any other criminal or traffic issue, please don’t hesitate to contact the skilled Montgomery County criminal defense lawyers here at Fendley & Etson today.