A resolution requesting the Metropolitan Police Department to verify proof of insurance coverage during traffic stops.

WHEREAS, in an effort to prevent uninsured drivers from causing uncompensated property damage or injury, state law requires drivers operating motor vehicles on the roadways in Tennessee to have automobile liability insurance coverage or other evidence of financial responsibility; and

WHEREAS, T.C.A. §55-12-139 requires drivers to submit proof of financial responsibility at the time they are charged with a moving violation or when involved in an accident; and

WHEREAS, failure to abide by the financial responsibility laws can result in the Tennessee Department of Safety placing a hold on the vehicle file, thus preventing any future registration of the vehicle; and

WHEREAS, proof of financial responsibility under state law includes the declaration page of an insurance policy, an insurance binder, or an insurance card from an insurance company licensed to do business in Tennessee; and

WHEREAS, some drivers in possession of what appears to be a valid insurance card may have had their coverage cancelled due to a failure to pay the required insurance premiums; and

WHEREAS, the Police Department could easily verify proof of insurance by having a dispatcher or other employee calling the telephone number on the insurance card; and

WHEREAS, although confirming insurance coverage might add a few minutes to a traffic stop, it would protect the public welfare and safety by reducing the number of uninsured motorists on Nashville’s roadways.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Metropolitan Police Department to verify proof of insurance coverage during traffic stops.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a certified copy of this Resolution to Chief of Police Ronal Serpas.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Sam Coleman