Automobile Accidents & Insurance

WHAT TO DO BEFORE AN ACCIDENT

We want to help you be prepared before an automobile accident, no matter whose fault it is.  One way to do that is to make sure you have enough automobile insurance for yourself and your family.

Tennessee Minimum Level of Insurance Coverage

Tennessee has a minimum level of mandatory insurance coverage.  You are required to carry liability insurance to cover injuries or damages you may cause to someone after a car accident.

The required minimum limits of your liability car insurance are:

• • • $25,000 for each injury or death per accident.
    • $50,000 for total injuries or deaths per accident.
    • $15,000 for property damage per accident.

• • • • Keep in mind, these are the minimums.  Accidents are expensive, and there’s no way to guarantee you won’t be involved in one.  If you can afford it, you should insure yourself and your family for higher than the minimum requirements such as:
        • Collision – Covers accident-related damages to your car.
        • Comprehensive – Covers non-accident related damages to your car, such as those caused by weather or vandalism.
        • Uninsured motorists – Helps cover costs associated with accidents with uninsured drivers or those with too little insurance. A growing number of motorists are driving without car insurance, but unless you have an uninsured motorists plan in place, you’ll be at risk if they hit you. With this coverage, your insurance company actually stands in the shoes of the at fault party and may cover your injuries.  This is one of the most important optional coverages you should have.
        • Medical payments – Helps pay for your medical bills after an accident.
        • Rental car.

THINK ABOUT YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE NOW

 In our next article, we will discuss what to do when you have been involved in an automobile accident, regardless of whose fault it is.  Prior to that, evaluate your insurance coverage.  If you cause damage in excess of your insurance policy limits, you’re responsible for the balance.  If your injuries are severe and the other party does not have enough insurance, you may need your insurance company to compensate you.  Be prepared. 

 Contact Kelli Haas anytime for questions at (615) 567-7304 or kelli@khalawgroup.com.