In 2019, there were 1,040 deaths from car accidents resulting in 1,135 death in Tennessee. This translates into 16.6 deaths per 100,000 people. For that same year, the equivalent national number was 11 deaths per 100,000 people. In 2020, there were 1,221 fatalities in Tennessee. Most highway deaths in the U.S. are caused by high-risk driving behaviors involving traffic violations.
Bankrate will consider a driver high-risk if they have one or more of the following: an at-fault car accident, speeding tickets, DUI convictions, or lapses in insurance coverage.
Tennessee rates for high-risk auto insurance
These high-risk drivers in Tennessee often pay higher car insurance premiums, as shown below. We focused on the factors that contribute to an increase in annual car insurance premiums. A speeding ticket, an injury, and a teenage driver are all factors that have an impact on insurance rates.
Rates for speeding tickets
In Tennessee, the impact of a speeding ticket can have a significant impact on your average annual car insurance premiums. This varies depending on which insurer you choose.
A Tennessee speeding ticket can lead to serious consequences. A violation can result in a fine of anywhere from $40 to $150. Tennessee’s traffic violations point system has a simple design:
- 1 point for every 5 mph exceeding the speed limit
- 6-15 mph faster than the speed limit: 3 points
- 16-25 mph faster than the speed limit: 4 points
- Overspeed limit 26-35 mph: 5 points
- 36-45 mph is the speed limit
- 46 mph or more than the speed limit: 8 points
An additional point will be added if one of these violations is committed in a construction zone. License suspension can be triggered by 12 or more points per year.
Rates for an accident
Tennessee uses a “fault-based” system to allocate responsibility for the payment of personal and property damages that result from car accidents. The specific payments will be determined by the insurers and in court. However, rates may rise depending on factors such as your fault level, severity of injuries, and other risk factors. A series of accidents in Tennessee will certainly have an impact on premiums.
Rates for DUI
DUI convictions can have serious and costly consequences for your ability to get car insurance.
A DUI can make it difficult for car insurance companies to cancel coverage immediately due to state laws. These state laws can be found on the Automobile Insurance Plan Service Office website. Insurers have the right to refuse to renew coverage.
Tennessee is one of many states which require that a proof form of insurance known as an SR-22 must be filed after a serious traffic offense. You can be charged with a DUI, as well as multiple accidents or speeding tickets within a given time.
Teen drivers: Rate
Teenagers aged 16-19 are the most at-risk group for accident injuries. Teens younger than 18 years old can often remain covered by their parents’ policies. Although it isn’t cheap, it is usually cheaper than purchasing a separate policy.
Teenagers aged 18-19 years old pay the highest premiums of any age group. Car insurance companies attempt to compensate for the higher risk. As drivers get more experience, the risk decreases and rates begin to fall for those aged 20-25.
Who are high-risk drivers?
We have looked at certain factors that directly impact driving ability. These include all traffic violations and the risks that teens face as a driver.
These factors are also considered when setting premiums for car insurance. Auto insurance companies consider a wider variety of factors, including credit scores and safety features for the insured vehicle. They also consider crime patterns where the car is operating. For the industry, the definition of high-risk driver is more broad.
How to lower your rate for high-risk drivers
There are options for high-risk drivers that could help them improve their risk status and lower their car insurance premiums . These options include:
- In Tennessee, sometimes, drivers can reduce points for traffic violations if they pay the fine before the due date.
- A defensive driving course can help you reduce your risk.
- Trade in your vehicle to lower the risk.
- Drive defensively and follow all traffic laws.
Questions frequently asked
Which is the best company to insure high-risk drivers with car insurance?
There is no one best car insurance. It is important to consider all factors that could place you in high-risk driving categories and compare the quotes from different car insurance companies. Compare the quotes to find the best policy for you.
What is the average time it takes for insurance premiums for high-risk drivers to drop?
High-risk drivers are a result of a variety of factors. Some more serious than others. For details on how long your factors will be kept on your record, ask your insurer. Typically, violations remain on a driver’s record for three to five years. However, it is possible that your carrier only “looks back” for a certain period.
What are the top factors that can make a driver highly risky?
Drivers at high risk for traffic violations, such as DUIs or speeding tickets, are the most important. You could also be high-risk due to other factors, such as poor credit scores or young age.