South Carolina

Answer 1

Columbia

Answer 2

State law in South Carolina requires drivers to hold a minimum liability insurance policy. Failure to comply with this requirement at all times may result in significant penalties. Because of this, it is advisable that all drivers in the state or moving to the state take time to learn more about the state's auto insurance requirements.

State Requirements

When a driver applies for a driver's license in the state of South Carolina, he or she must complete a short questionnaire regarding ownership of vehicles as well as liability coverage on the vehicle or vehicles. The state requires all drivers to hold a 25/50/25 liability policy at all times. This application also requires drivers to indicate which insurance company they hold their insurance with. The Department of Motor Vehicles then verifies that the insurance is active. Further, this process is repeated each time a vehicle registration or driver's license is renewed in the state.

Failure to Comply

The penalty drivers may face if they do not comply with minimum state law requirements can be severe. If the Department of Motor Vehicles is unable to verify that you have active coverage that meets minimum state insurance requirements, your license may be suspended. If you are pulled over on the road by a police officer and are not able to indicate adequate proof of coverage, you may face a citation, a monetary fine, or even jail time.

Additional Coverage

As a driver in South Carolina, you are not required to purchase coverage that exceeds the minimum state requirements. However, you should be aware that the minimum liability coverage requirements will cover damages that another driver involved in an accident may face. Liability coverage does not cover any of your own personal costs from an accident. Further, the minimum coverage requirements in the state are fairly low, and this level of coverage may not fully coverage damages you are responsible for if you are involved in a serious or costly accident. Because of this, many drivers in South Carolina purchase additional coverage or a comprehensive policy. It is wise to discuss your needs in more detail with an insurance agent.

With the risk for penalties and additional financial costs that you may face by not complying with state law, it is important to fully understand the insurance requirements in the state of South Carolina and to ensure you maintain a policy that meets these requirements at all times.