Tennessee Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

Anyone riding a motorcycle in Tennessee must abide by the state’s required insurance. Tennessee requires all drivers to maintain liability coverage that protects others when they cause accidents. As an at-fault state, the person who causes an accident must pay for the losses the victim suffered. Speak with a Nashville motorcycle accident attorney from Selvidge Injury Law today for a free consultation.

Insurance Requirements for Motorcycles in Tennessee

The state’s motorcycle insurance laws apply to all parties operating a motorcycle on the street. To operate legally, riders must carry the following types of insurance:

• $25,000 of bodily injury coverage per person
• $50,000 in bodily injury per accident total
• $25,000 in property damage per accident

The law requires all motorcycle riders to carry proof of insurance with them. If there is an accident, the motorcycle rider, like all other drivers, must present their proof of insurance in the form of a physical card or electronic image to the other parties involved.

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Liability Insurance Covers the Other Driver

The state does not require any additional insurance from motorcycle riders. However, state-required liability insurance does not provide the rider with any protection for their own losses. It does not cover damage to the vehicle or personal injuries the rider suffers.

You may elect to purchase additional insurance coverage. That may include collision damage, medical coverage, and other forms of coverage. If you have a loan on your motorcycle, your lender may require you to carry additional coverage as well. Our experienced injury attorney in Nashville, TN can help guide you through the legal battle today.

What Happens When You Do Not Have Insurance

Operating a motorcycle without insurance can result in a hefty penalty. You may face a Class C misdemeanor charge. This charge can lead to a fine of up to $300 for a first-time offense. In addition, law enforcement may tow your bike from the location at your expense. Driving without insurance can also lead to automatic suspension of your license and registration until you can demonstrate proof of coverage. That, too, can be a costly loss.

In some situations, you may have to seek SR-22 coverage. This liability insurance requires the insurance company to submit a letter confirming your coverage to the state. This can increase your coverage costs.

What Happens If You Are in an Accident with Someone Who Does Not Have Insurance?

Auto liability insurance in Tennessee must offer to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage when you purchase insurance through an insurance carrier. You can decline this coverage, but they must offer it to you, and it is NEVER advisable to reject UM coverage. This type of coverage protects a victim of an accident if the at-fault party lacks insurance. UM is a policy you obtain with your own insurance that covers you in the event of an accident.

Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is also available. It provides insurance protection for you if the at-fault driver has liability coverage, but it is not enough to cover all of your losses. It is important to maintain these types of coverage. According to III.org, Tennessee ranked fifth in the country for uninsured motorists in 2023, with 21.3% of drivers lacking proper coverage. UM coverage is insurance that protects you.

Schedule a Consultation with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you suffer injuries and losses in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, contact Selvidge Injury Law. Our legal team understands Tennessee motorcycle insurance requirements and knows how to fight for fair compensation, even if the other party lacks coverage. Set up a free consultation with our team today to learn more about your rights to financial compensation.