Navigating Auto Insurance: What You Need to Know After an Accident

On average, there are over 100 car accidents on Tennessee’s roadways every day, according to the Department of Safety & Homeland Security. Whether you are dealing with a minor fender-bender or something more serious, it is important to know what steps to take for your safety (and that of your passengers and anyone else involved in the wreck) and to file an insurance claim.

In the moments after a car accident, your heart is racing, your mind is spinning, and the last thing you want to deal with is the fine print of your insurance policy. But the truth is, what happens next depends heavily on the kind of coverage you have and how you use it.

Whether you were rear-ended on I-40, sideswiped on Broadway, or T-boned in a parking lot, navigating auto insurance is never simple. So, let us break it down, step by step, so you can protect yourself, get what you are owed, and avoid costly mistakes.

First things first: What to do immediately after the crash

Involved in an accident? Here is what to do. Before you think about calling your insurance company, make sure you:

• Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
• Move out of travel lanes if possible and turn on your hazard lights.
• Exchange information with the other driver (license, insurance, contact info).
• Take photos of the scene, damage, and any injuries.
• Get a police report. You will need it for most insurance claims.
• Get medical care, even if you feel fine. Shock and adrenaline can hide symptoms.

Once you have taken these steps, it is time to think about how your insurance will come into play.

How car insurance works after an accident in Tennessee

Tennessee is a fault state, which means the driver who caused the accident is generally responsible for paying for the damages (through their insurance).

Here is how different types of coverage might help you after a crash:

1. Liability insurance

Liability insurance covers damage and injuries you cause to others. It does not cover you or damage to your vehicle in any way. It is required by law in Tennessee. Minimum limits are:

• $25,000 for injury or death to one person
• $50,000 for injury or death to more than one person
• $25,000 for property damage

Remember, if you are at fault, your liability insurance pays the other party’s bills, but not your own.

2. Collision coverage

Helps pay for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of who caused the crash. This is optional coverage but often required if your car is financed or leased. Even if you own your car outright, collision coverage is a good idea.

3. Comprehensive coverage

Covers non-collision events, like:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Fire
• Weather damage (hail, flood, etc.)

This is what would help if your car were stolen, but only if you have it. Without comprehensive insurance, you are likely out of luck.

4. Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage

If the other driver does not have insurance or does not have enough, UM/UIM helps cover your costs. It is optional in Tennessee, but highly recommended.

What happens if you wreck a financed car without insurance?

This is one of the worst-case scenarios and, unfortunately, it happens more than you would think.

If you wreck a financed car and do not have insurance:

• You are still on the hook for the remaining loan balance.
• The lender may demand immediate repayment.
• You may have to pay out of pocket for repairs or the full value of the car.
• If another driver was involved, and it was your fault, you could be sued personally for damages.

The protection that car insurance offers extends beyond the car itself. It protects your finances, credit, and more. Driving without it, especially with a loan or lease, is a massive gamble.

What would happen if your car were stolen and you do not have auto insurance?

Without comprehensive coverage, you are likely facing a total loss. Here is what happens:

• You file a police report, but your insurer will not cover anything.
• You still owe money if the car is financed or leased.
• You are responsible for replacing the vehicle out of pocket.
• You may be without transportation and with a big financial hole to climb out of.

The sad reality? Car theft does not relieve you of debt even if the car is gone. You still owe the money you borrowed and have to repay it.

Dealing with insurance after an accident: Tips to protect yourself

Insurance companies are not in the business of handing out checks. Their goal is to minimize payouts, even if you are the victim. Here is how to stay ahead:

1. Notify your insurer promptly

Even if the crash was not your fault, you are required to notify your own insurer soon after the accident. Not doing so could mean a denied claim.

2. Do not give recorded statements without legal advice

Insurers may ask for a recorded statement but anything you say can be used to deny or reduce your claim. It is best to speak with a personal injury lawyer first.

3. Watch for lowball offers

After an accident, insurers may rush to offer a settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries or damage. Do not sign anything until you understand what you are really owed.

4. Get a copy of the police report

The police report is central to proving fault and backing up your story. Make sure the facts are correct and complete.

5. Track all expenses

Track every dollar the accident costs you, from medical bills and prescriptions to towing fees and missed time at work.

What if the other driver has no insurance?

Despite legal requirements, many drivers in Tennessee do not carry insurance. If you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver:

• Your UM/UIM coverage can help cover your losses.
• If you do not have it, you may need to sue the at-fault driver personally, but many uninsured drivers have no way to pay.

This is another reason to consider adding UM/UIM to your policy.

When to talk to a lawyer

Not every fender-bender needs a legal team. But if any of the following are true, you should speak with a car accident attorney right away:

• You were seriously injured.
• The insurance company is denying your claim.
• You were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
• You are being blamed for a crash you did not
• You are being pressured to settle quickly.
• Your totaled car was financed and now you owe money.

Call the Rocky McElhaney Law Firm today

At Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, we know how stressful it is to deal with insurance after an accident, especially when you are hurt, without a car, and wondering how you are going to make it to next week.

Our team fights hard for Tennessee accident victims. We can help you understand your coverage, deal with the insurance companies, and get the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle damage. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We have offices located in Nashville, Hendersonville, Clarksville, and Murfreesboro to better serve you.