As a result of continued economic downturn, Tennessee drivers are increasingly canceling their car insurance policies to save money. Others are making ends meet by reducing their coverage level to the state minimum.

It may save a little money upfront, but canceling car insurance can cost a whole lot more in the long run.

It's illegal to operate a vehicle without car insurance in Tennessee, and violators will be hit with a fine. In order to retain legal driving privileges, drivers will then be required by the state to purchase a Tennessee car insurance policy. Since the driver was found to be driving without insurance, they will likely be forced into a high-risk policy, which can cost two to three times more than a standard policy.

Insured drivers have reason to worry, too. Industry experts warn that as more Tennesseans drive without insurance, purchasing uninsured motorist coverage is crucial. The cost of uninsured motorist coverage for the average Tennessee car insurance policy is just a few dollars per month.

Urban areas typically have more road traffic and higher car theft rates, so if you have car insurance in Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville or any other major city, you should take special care to evaluate your policy limits to make sure you're adequately covered.

If you're looking for cheap car insurance in Tennessee or elsewhere, you don't have to reduce coverage: taking a few moments to research great ways to save on car insurance could help you save a bundle.