Cheapest And Best Non Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee

For many people in Tennessee, the combined costs of car payments and insurance can eat up a substantial portion of their monthly income, sometimes even rivaling rent or mortgage payments.

This is why more and more Tennesseans are choosing to share or rent a car instead of owning one, finding financial stability and peace of mind through non-owner car insurance.

With 15 years of experience as a licensed insurance agent and over 35 years of buying car insurance, I have a deep understanding of the insurance companies reviewed here, as I’ve been insured by several of them. While all of these providers have strong reputations, each one has its unique strengths in helping our fellow Tennesseans.

What Is Non Owner Car Insurance

If you frequently drive cars that aren’t yours, such as rentals or borrowed vehicles, non-owner car insurance can be a wise choice.

Non-owner car insurance primarily provides liability coverage. So, if you’re at fault in an accident while driving a car that doesn’t belong to you, this policy can handle the medical and repair expenses for the other party.

Some insurers may offer additional options like protection for uninsured/underinsured drivers and personal injuries.

However, it’s important to note that non-owner insurance typically doesn’t include comprehensive or collision coverage. This means that any damage to the vehicle you’re driving might not be covered.

For those who regularly rent or borrow cars, non-owner car insurance offers an extra layer of protection, in addition to what the vehicle’s owner might already have.

It often proves to be a more cost-effective option than constantly opting for insurance from a rental company.

Furthermore, having a non-owner policy helps maintain a consistent insurance record, which could potentially lead to lower premiums if you decide to own a car in the future.

What Is SR-22 Insurance?

From a technical standpoint, an SR-22 isn’t an insurance policy but rather a special document related to vehicle liability insurance. It’s typically required by most state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices in cases involving “high-risk” insurance.

This document, filed by your insurance provider, serves as proof that you meet your state’s minimum liability insurance requirements.

It’s often mandated for drivers with suspended licenses stemming from traffic violations, DUIs, or serious infractions.

The SR-22 form functions as evidence of financial responsibility, demonstrating that the driver possesses the necessary auto liability insurance coverage. Its primary role is to confirm that an individual maintains this insurance coverage.

Usually, it’s ordered by the state or court, particularly for high-risk drivers. The insurance company submits this form to the state. If the policy is not upheld and it lapses, the insurer is obliged to notify the state.

Average Cost Of Non Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee

Navigating the world of non-owner car insurance can be a bit complex, given the various providers and pricing variations. It’s essential to make a well-informed decision while taking the costs into account.

To make this process more straightforward, we’ve prepared a comparison chart displaying the average prices of non-owner car insurance from five well-known providers.

How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee By Age?

Just as with comprehensive car insurance, non-owner car insurance is most expensive for teenagers and gradually decreases each year until you reach age 55.

Here are some example rates for non-owner car insurance in Tennessee at 10 different age points.

Average Cost Of Non Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee Cities

These are sample rates for cities in Tennessee:

How Much Is Non-Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee’s 10 Biggest Cities?

The city’s size plays a role in how insurers determine car insurance costs. Residing in a large city with heavy traffic often means higher car insurance expenses.

How Non-Owner Insurance Rates In Tennessee Compare To Rates In Other States

Interestingly, the typical annual cost for non-owner car insurance in Tennessee stands at $323, which is below the national average of $353. Now, let’s examine the rates for non-owner insurance in the 12 most densely populated states:

Should You Get Non-Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee?

Non-owner car insurance is a specialized form of auto insurance designed for individuals who don’t own a vehicle but drive on occasion. It provides liability coverage in the event you cause an accident while operating a borrowed or rented car.

In Tennessee, several groups should consider acquiring non-owner car insurance:

Frequent Renters And Borrowers:

If you frequently rent cars or borrow vehicles from friends or family, non-owner car insurance makes smart financial sense. While rental companies offer insurance, it can become costly if you rent often. Having your own policy ensures your protection without impacting the vehicle owner’s premium.

Commuters Who Use Public Transportation With Occasional Driving Needs:

Many Tennesseans primarily rely on public transport or rideshares for daily commuting and only drive occasionally. If you reside in an area with good public transportation options or prefer biking and walking for most of your travel, you might fall into this category. However, there may be situations where driving becomes necessary. Non-owner insurance ensures you have the financial protection you need in such instances.

Individuals Seeking Continuous Coverage:

Insurance providers frequently view individuals without consistent coverage as high-risk, potentially leading to higher premiums when you decide to purchase a car. If you’ve sold your vehicle and anticipate being without one for some time, a non-owner policy helps maintain uninterrupted coverage, preserving your insurance history. This can prove highly advantageous when you eventually acquire a car and require standard insurance.

What Does Non Owner Car Insurance Cover?

Non-owner car insurance primarily revolves around liability coverage, addressing costs related to injuries or damages you might be responsible for in an accident.

It’s crucial to bear in mind that this insurance won’t foot the bill for damages to the car you’re driving; that responsibility falls on the owner’s insurance.

Some non-owner policies also come with optional features like medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP), which cater to your medical expenses following an accident, irrespective of fault.

Moreover, there’s the possibility to opt for uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, which acts as a safety net if you’re involved in an accident with a driver lacking proper insurance.

However, it’s important to stress that non-owner car insurance doesn’t include comprehensive or collision coverage. So, if the vehicle sustains damage due to theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or a collision, this insurance won’t shoulder those financial burdens.

How To Get Non-Owner Car Insurance In Tennessee

To efficiently secure non-owner car insurance in Tennessee, follow these five straightforward steps:

Step 1: Determine Your Needs

Before you embark on this journey, it’s crucial to understand why you require non-owner car insurance. Are you frequently renting cars or borrowing from friends and family? Are you seeking to reinstate your license with a non-owner SR-22 form? Having a clear understanding will help you find the most suitable policy.

Step 2: Gather Your Personal Information

To receive a quote, you’ll need to provide some basic information, such as your name, address, and driver’s license number. This information allows the insurer to assess your risk level and set your premium accordingly.

Step 3: Compare Rates From Different Providers

Non-owner car insurance rates can vary between companies. It’s a smart move to compare quotes to ensure you’re securing the best deal.

Step 4: Select The Appropriate Coverage

Most non-owner car insurance policies primarily cover liability for accident-related costs. Depending on your unique needs, consider additional options such as uninsured motorist protection or medical payments. Tailoring the policy to your specific requirements is essential.

Step 5: Purchase Your Policy And Obtain Proof Of Insurance

Once you’ve made your choice, you can typically buy the policy online or over the phone. You’ll receive proof of insurance almost immediately, often through email. If necessary, your provider can assist in filing an SR-22 for you.