Tennessee's financial responsibility law requires drivers to produce evidence of FR to an officer when charged with a moving violation or involved in a motor vehicle accident. According to the TN Department of Safety failure to provide proof of motor vehicle financial responsibility is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine and the operator's license may also be suspended.

If at the scene of an accident you are unable to show proof of FR (car insurance) and convicted of the charge of failure to show evidence of FR, driving privileges will be suspended. Before reinstatement of the license, you would be required to submit proof of insurance, along with other administrative or court requirements.

If you contributed to the accident and a claim is filed with the TN Department of Safety by the other party you will need to obtain notarized releases from all parties that filed claims with the department or post a bond for the amount of the damages sustained by other parties. If these requirements are not complied with, your driver's license and registration will be revoked.

If your driving privileges are revoked due to a conviction or failure to file security after an accident, in addition to all other requirements you must have a liability insurance carrier file an SR-22 form with the Department of Safety before privileges can be reinstated.

To find out more about what you are required to do and if you will be able to keep your license, contact the TN Department of Safety.