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Did you know that it is illegal to leave a vehicle running and unattended in the state of Tennessee?

During the winter months more vehicles are reported stolen because many drivers start their cars to warm them up and then go back into the house – in violation of the law. It is unfortunate, but you have to sit in the car if you are going to warm it up.

This is important to note for two reasons:

1.  If you’ve left a running, unattended vehicle and it is stolen, and then involved in an accident or a crime, you could be held responsible for the damages.

2.  Insurance companies can be reluctant to pay a claim when it can be proven that the keys were left inside the stolen car.

Its amazing how one such seemingly innocent event can quickly turn into a terrible nightmare.  Its better to be safe than sorry, sit in your car and warm it up – even in your own driveway.  Thieves are on the lookout for such opportunities!

Other interesting laws in our Volunteer State

I feel that it is important to note, with the Thanksgiving Holiday fast approaching, that in Tennessee it is legal to gather and consume roadkill.

Any person who participates in a duel may not hold any public office in the state.  I think we’d all be surprised at how many folks that rules out…

Our seat belt law requires you to wear your seatbelt, but the law specifically prohibits law enforcement officials from pulling you over for solely not wearing it.  Police officers can only ticket you for the violation if and only if you are pulled over for another offense, like speeding.

And I’ll leave you with this – 

Ok, this is old, old old… but long ago, a city ordinance in Memphis actually stated that a woman was not allowed to drive a car unless a man is walking in front of the car waving red fabric or flags to warn people and other cars. Glad we’re over that one!