Tennessee driving laws: Lesser-known rules every driver should know
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – You know the basics: follow the speed limit, adjust your mirrors and buckle up. However, there are some traffic laws in Tennessee that you may not be aware of.
Before you put it in drive, here are some rules of the road you should know prior to traveling in the Volunteer State.
1.) Drivers are not allowed to hold a cellphone while operating a vehicle
In 2019, the Volunteer State passed the “hands-free driving law” aimed to reduce distracted driving in the state. The law makes it illegal for motorists to hold a mobile device, send a message, watch movies and record a video while operating a vehicle.
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The “Eddie Conrad Act”, which took effect in January 2024, increased the penalties for those who are caught texting and driving. It particularly affects people under the age of 18, who will receive seven points for a second or subsequent offense — enough to potentially have their license suspended for six to 12 months.
2.) It’s legal to eat roadkill…. with a few exceptions
State law allows people to eat “wild game animals” that were accidentally struck and killed by a motor vehicle, according to Tennessee Code 70-4-115. Yes, you read that correctly, those carcasses often seen on the side of the road are free to eat.
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However, there are few exceptions to the free meal. For example, drivers are permitted to possess a deer only if they notify the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) or provide their name to local law enforcement within 48 hours. Similar rules apply to bears as well. According to the code, motorists are allowed to possess the carcass once a TWRA officer issues a possession tag for it.
3.) It’s illegal for those 16 and under to ride a bike without a helmet
It is unlawful for bicyclists aged 16 and under to ride a bike, or be a passenger on a bike, without wearing a protective helmet, states TCA 55-52-105. The law also clarifies that it is unlawful for bicyclists to carry more than one person at a time unless the bicycle was designed to do so.
4.) You must move over when passing stationary vehicles
Drivers in Tennessee are required to move over or slow down when passing any stationary vehicle with flashing hazard lights on the side of the road. The Volunteer State became the 30th state in the nation to adopt the Move Over law.
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In 2023, a bill expanding the law increased fines, meaning the first violation could land drivers with a fine more than double the previous penalty at no less than $250. Officials said the amount will significantly increase for those who repeatedly violate the law, with a second or third violation resulting in a fine of $2,500 at minimum.
5.) Carrying a skunk across state lines is illegal
Planning a trip to Tennessee? Make sure you leave your skunk at home before crossing state lines! According to TCA 70-4-208, the “unlawful importation of skunks” is prohibited in the Volunteer State, except by zoos and research facilities.
6.) Drivers should pull over for funeral processions… right?
No, there are no laws that require motorists to pull over on the side of the road as a sign of respect for the deceased. Although it’s not a lawful order, the gesture is commonly seen throughout the south. However, Tennessee Code Annotated 55-8-183 states drivers shall not fail to yield the right-of way of a funeral procession progressing across an intersection, attempt to pass an funeral procession or drive between vehicles within a procession.
7.) “Slow Poke Law”
The “Slow Poke Law”, went into effect across Tennessee on July 1, 2016. The law makes it illegal to drive in the left passing lane of traffic unless you are passing. Violating the law is punishable by a fine of $50.00.
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However, there are some exceptions. For example, the law will not apply in cases of inclement weather, while a road is under construction or if there are obstructions in the non-passing lanes that makes it necessary to drive in the passing lane.
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