Is Liability Insurance Required in Every State?

If you live in any state, you’ll need to ensure your vehicle has liability coverage. Having minimum liability coverage is a state requirement. Anyone in the Memphis, TN, area interested in acquiring auto insurance, whether it’s a liability or full coverage, can count on the experts at Tackett Insurance Inc.

Auto Insurance Experts 

Anyone driving on the road must have liability insurance in every state. However, most people opt to select full coverage insurance. Full coverage insurance refers to a combination of coverages that include liability, collision, and comprehensive. In addition, you may also choose other optional add-ons and features such as towing, windshield, hospitalization, and more.

Whether you’re in the market for new insurance or need reliable auto coverage for a new purchase, we can help. Our team of insurance agents is happy to work closely with each client to assess their situation carefully. Once they grasp current and future needs, they’ll recommend policy options that meet those needs. Not only do agents assist with submitting documents to acquire coverage, but they can also assist with any changes during the policy’s life. They’ll even provide help with filing claims.

Reach Out Today 

If you or someone you know is in the market for reliable auto insurance, our helpful team of experts can help. Call or stop by the offices of Tackett Insurance Inc., serving a resident in the Memphis, TN area, to schedule a consultation today. Our goal is to provide our customers with insurance products they can count on to give them peace of mind and security. Don’t wait to get your auto coverage. Get started today and protect yourself and your automobile, whether on the road or parked at home.

Safe driving tips for Memphis

There are many safe driving tips that can help you stay safe on the road. This blog post will discuss some of the most important ones. Following these tips can reduce your risk of getting into an accident.

  1. Don’t drink and drive. It may seem obvious, but drinking and driving are one of the most common causes of accidents on the road. If you are going to be partying or celebrating with friends, make sure you have a designated driver who will stay sober and keep everyone safe while driving.
  2. Avoid distractions while driving. Texting, talking on the phone, and fiddling with the radio are all common distractions that can make it harder for you to focus on the road. If possible, try to minimize these distractions while behind the wheel or pull over if you need to take a call or send a text message.
  3. Follow the speed limit. Driving at a safe speed is essential for staying in control of your vehicle and avoiding dangerous situations on the road. Observe the speed limit and adjust your driving as needed, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic conditions.
  4. Keep a safe distance from other cars. Maintaining a safe following distance is integral to being a responsible driver. This means allowing time to slow down or stop if you need to and not tailgating other vehicles too closely.
  5. Use turn signals when turning or changing lanes. Notifying other drivers of your intentions on the road is essential to sharing the road safely with others.

For more safe driving tips, call Tackett Insurance Inc. today. We proudly serve the Memphis, TN area.

Three signs that it’s time to update your auto insurance policy

There are plenty of reasons why you may need to change your auto insurance policy. Some changes you make to your policy could save you money or make it so that your coverage is more closely aligned with your needs.

If you are a motorist in need of an updated insurance policy, get in touch with us at Tackett Insurance Inc. The following are three signs that it’s time to update your auto insurance policy in Memphis, TN. 

You’ve bought an additional vehicle.

You need to notify your auto insurance provider of any new vehicle purchase if you want to have every vehicle you own covered.

If you buy a new vehicle, this may increase your auto insurance coverage costs. That’s why it’s essential to immediately notify your auto insurance provider of a new vehicle purchase to ensure that you’re covered behind the wheel in any of your vehicles. 

You’ve moved to a different area.

It’s important to be aware of the differences in auto insurance requirements in different communities and states.

If you’ve recently moved to a new area, update your coverage accordingly. Your previous auto insurance provider might not offer coverage in your new area, so research any changes regarding your auto insurance needs. 

Your vehicle usage habits have changed.

If you’re not driving as far as you used to as part of your daily commute, you might be eligible for a low mileage discount. You should look into this possibility if your vehicle usage habits have changed. 

We’re standing by to assist you with your auto insurance needs in Memphis, TN. Give us a call at Tackett Insurance Inc. if you need to update your auto insurance coverage. 

Do people in Memphis need auto insurance?

People in the Memphis, TN area will always benefit by having their own car. When you are looking to purchase a vehicle in this region of Tennessee, you can quickly find that protecting your car is important. A great way that you can protect yourself and your car is by getting insurance for it. An auto plan is needed for people in this area for a variety of reasons. 

Coverage is Needed to Protect the Car

One of the reasons that you need auto insurance is so you can protect your car. There is a big investment that comes with a vehicle purchase and protecting it is very important. If you are insured, you will have the support that will help to mitigate various risks including theft or accident damage. 

Coverage is Required for Drivers

Another reason that you will want to get an auto insurance plan is that it will likely be a requirement. If you ever intend to drive your car in this state, you will have to carry liability insurance. With this type of insurance, you will have protection if you cause an accident that has damages. If you do not have this insurance in place, you could be found in violation of state driving laws and can face various penalties in the future. 

Anyone that owns or leases a vehicle in the Memphis, TN area is going to need to have auto coverage. If you are evaluating your needs for insurance here, you can start your search by calling Tackett Insurance Inc. With so many choices to make when looking for coverage, working with Tackett Insurance Inc. is a great option. The team here will give you any support that you need to understand all of your needs and pick an ideal plan. 

How to Protect Your Car from Theft

Auto theft is a common occurrence these days, with thieves getting savvy every day. There are many ways to prevent yourself from being a victim of car theft by taking preventative measures and ensuring car security. Investing in the right auto insurance policy is also a way to protect your car from theft. In case it gets stolen, you can be compensated for your loss. If you’re in Memphis, TN, Tackett Insurance Inc. can help with guidance on auto insurance companies that cover theft. 

Lock doors and close windows

When doors are unlocked, you make it easy for a thief to break in. It’s critical to make it a habit to check whether doors are locked at all times. If you leave the windows open, a thief can easily reach in and unlock the door from inside, then steal what they want.

Be smart about where you park and avoid dark, unattended areas

If you don’t want to fall victim to car theft, park your car in areas that are easily accessible and with good lighting. This will make it hard for a car thief to break in and steal anything as they fear being seen. Have a motion sensor installed if it isn’t in a completely lit place.

Don’t leave the keys in the car

Thieves can easily drive away with your car if you leave the keys on the ignition. If you are stepping out to run an errand, ensure you don’t leave the engine running. Otherwise, your car becomes an easy target for theft.

Install safety features

Car safety features and anti-theft devices are necessary when it comes to protecting your car from auto theft. Install alarm systems to go off when there is an attempt to break in and, if possible, have visible locks on the steering wheel and window etchings to keep off thieves.

If your car doesn’t have an antitheft system, have one installed. Your car has a higher chance of getting recovered fast, and this is discouraging to thieves. Ask your insurer about the discounts for these anti-theft systems. 

There’s so much you can do to protect your car from theft. It’s important to remember that lives are crucial, so don’t resist when confronted by a carjacker. You can also contact Tackett Insurance Inc. serving Memphis, TN to learn more about policies such as comprehensive auto insurance that cover your car against theft and other issues apart from collision.

Why basic auto insurance isn’t always the right choice

From the Great Smokey Mountains in the east to the Mississippi River in the west, Tennessee offers some of the most scenic vistas that any driver could want. Whether you are taking a great American road trip or just driving to the grocery store, you want to make sure you have the right auto insurance to keep you protected. At Tackett Insurance Inc in Memphis, TN, we have a team of experts who will make sure your policy is customized to your needs and wallet. 

In the state of Tennessee, you are required to have liability insurance. It is a basic amount which may be fine if you don’t have many assets. If, however, you do have assets, it probably isn’t the right choice. Liability insurance protects other people from an accident where you are the at-fault driver, but what about your vehicle? If you have basic auto insurance, it isn’t going to cover your vehicle. 

To protect your vehicle, you need to carry collision and comprehensive coverage. 

Collision insurance

Collision insurance pays to repair or replace your vehicle if you are in an accident where you are at fault. It will also cover a hit and run or a single driver accident where you are the only one involved. 

Comprehensive insurance

Comprehensive insurance also covers your vehicle. Many things can damage your vehicle over which you have no control. You can’t control hail from damaging your paint, limbs from falling on your roof, or stones from flying up and cracking your windshield. Theft and vandalism are also covered by comprehensive insurance.

When you count on your vehicle to do your daily tasks, having insurance to protect it is a must. 

Contact Tackett Insurance Inc in Memphis, TN when you need your auto policy reviewed or are looking for a first policy.

What are my insurance options as a Tennesse driver

What are my insurance options as a Tennessee driver?

The government of Tennessee requires drivers to carry minimum coverage of property damage liability and bodily injury liability.  However, that doesn’t mean you stop there as there are other critical additional coverages that you can buy or increase your limits. If you are a driver looking to purchase auto insurance in Memphis, TN, Tackett Insurance Inc can provide you with several options to help you have a good starting point.

You will need collision and comprehensive coverages

Whether you are a skilled driver or an amateur, you will need a comprehensive and collision package to protect you against financial loss in the event of an accident.  Remember, your liability coverage does not cover you nor your vehicle but other motorists who may get injured in accidents that you cause. Collision coverage replaces or repairs your damaged vehicle after a collision with another car, tree, or pole on the roads. Comprehensive coverage compensates you in case your vehicle is stolen, vandalized, or burned.

Bundle your policies for discounts

Most insurance companies offer discounts if you bundle up your insurance policies. If you buy home, auto, and boat insurance from the same insurance provider, you are likely to get a huge bonus that will lower your rates. Ask about discounts before settling on a specific insurance company.

Consider buying uninsured/ underinsured coverage

Just because you are insured doesn’t mean everyone else is. It would be a good idea if you could purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages to protect yourself and your property in case you encounter an accident with such drivers.

Insurance today is no longer complicated like it used to be years back. However, you need to study and understand your policy to avoid confusion and misunderstandings when filing a claim in Memphis, TN.  Don’t forget to seek help from Tackett insurance Inc. when you get stuck. We are always waiting to assist you.

No Fault Accident: Do I Involve My Insurance Company?

You’re commuting to work when out of nowhere you’re rear-ended. You’re ok, and so is the other driver, but there’s extensive damage to your vehicle that needs to get repaired. After altering the police to the accident, it’s now time to exchange insurance information. At this point, do you involve your insurance agency? That depends.

According to Tackett Insurance Inc, there are three scenarios that you’ll face when in an accident that’s not your fault: the other driver is insured, underinsured, or uninsured.

If the driver is insured and can cover the amount of damage to your vehicle, there’s no reason to involve your insurance company as you won’t need to file a claim. However, it’s always a good idea to let them know when you’ve been in a no-fault accident because they’re on your side and you never know what issues could come up in the future. Also, your premium will not rise when the other insurance company is covering the costs in Memphis, TN.

If the driver is underinsured or uninsured, you may need to file a claim with your insurance company to pick up the rest of the amount it will take to get your vehicle repaired. This is where your policy kicks in to help you out. As long as you’ve been a good driver and haven’t had a string of accidents, your premium should not go up. Once your claim is exhausted, the rest of the amount, if any, will have to come out of pocket. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have maximum auto coverage, and beyond that, umbrella insurance to cover any future scenario that might happen.

To learn more about purchasing auto insurance or upgrading a current policy, contact the team at Tackett Insurance Inc, serving Memphis, TN. 

Auto Insurance Buying Tips for New Drivers

Auto Insurance Buying Tips for New Drivers

As a new driver, it’s only natural for you to have questions about purchasing auto insurance. Auto insurance is required in Tennessee, making it necessary for you to have coverage. If you’re not sure what kind of coverage to buy, these tips from Tackett Insurance Inc. can help you choose wisely.

Shop Around

The first thing you need to know about auto coverage in Memphis, TN is that it isn’t “one size fits all.” People differ in the protection they need depending on the vehicle they drive, their driving habits, personal lifestyle, and budget. By shopping around, you can learn more about coverage options and costs so you can get a good deal on your policy.

Choose the Right Insurer

Choosing the right insurer is as important as choosing a policy. For quality coverage, good customer service, and help with claims, it’s better to work with a reputable insurer, even if you pay a little more for your policy.

Don’t Compromise Coverage for Price

Coverage is more important than price, especially for new drivers, as you’re at greater risk of an accident due to lack of driving experience. Make sure the policy you choose offers ample coverage to protect you against auto theft, accidents, breakdowns, and other mishaps that can occur on Memphis highways.

Make Sure Your Auto Coverage Fulfills State Requirements  

Tennessee requires that all drivers carry minimum auto liability coverage. Liability insurance covers injuries and property damage to others in accidents you cause. When purchasing your auto insurance, make sure you fulfill state requirements to avoid paying a fee or having your license suspended if you’re caught.

Working with a trustworthy insurance agent can simplify your search for auto insurance. Drivers in Memphis, TN can trust Tackett Insurance Inc. with all their auto insurance needs.

Are Pets Covered by Auto Insurance?

For many, pets are a part of the family, and it’s natural to want such furry family members to live as long and healthy a life as possible. Unfortunately, those lives can be cut short in the event of an auto accident. This is especially true when pets aren’t safely restrained by a seat belt over their body or by a belt connecting their crate to the seat. But even with such safety restraints, a pet may suffer injuries in an auto accident. Tackett insurance, Inc. offers a look at what happens if you are in a car accident with your pet and whether an auto insurance plan will cover your pet:

Are Pets Covered by Auto Insurance?

The answer is that it depends upon who is determined to be at-fault for the accident and what type of insurance coverage you choose.

  • If you are found not at fault. Both the government and insurance companies currently see pets as property. Thus, if someone else is found at-fault of the car accident in which your pet was injured, restitution for your pet’s injuries are likely to be covered under the other person’s property damage (or liability coverage). You will need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company (keep all of our receipts), but generally, your pet’s medical expenses will be paid or reimbursed by this policy. 
  • If you are found at fault. If you are deemed at fault for a car accident, then your pet’s injuries sustained by that accident may still be covered, but only if it’s explicitly stated by the policy. Generally, this is a free or cheap add-on to collision or comprehensive auto coverage.

Ask Your Tackett Insurance, Inc. Agent About Pet Coverage

Not sure if your pet is currently covered? Contact our team at Tackett Insurance, Inc. in Memphis, TN today to talk with a friendly team about updating your auto insurance policy.