Car Insurance in South Dakota: Car insurance is essential no matter where you live, but in South Dakota, it takes on special importance due to unique driving conditions, weather, and state laws. Whether you’re driving through the rural plains, navigating icy winter roads, or just commuting in town, having the right insurance coverage is crucial. Let’s explore everything you need to know about getting car insurance in South Dakota and how you can secure the best quote for your needs.
Why You Need Car Insurance in South Dakota
It’s not just a good idea to have car insurance in South Dakota—it’s the law. All drivers are required to have a minimum amount of coverage, but beyond that, insurance provides essential financial protection. Accidents happen when you least expect them, and without proper coverage, you could find yourself responsible for enormous repair bills or medical expenses.
Car insurance also brings peace of mind. Knowing you’re covered in the event of a fender bender, theft, or storm damage allows you to drive with confidence.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in South Dakota
South Dakota law mandates specific minimum levels of coverage. As of now, the state requires:
- Bodily injury liability: At least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
- Property damage liability: At least $25,000.
- Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
These amounts cover basic liability, meaning they protect other drivers and property if you’re at fault. However, this minimal coverage doesn’t necessarily cover your vehicle or medical bills if you’re the one involved in the accident. That’s why many drivers choose to purchase additional coverage.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage Available
Beyond the state minimums, you can customize your policy with several other coverage options:
Liability Coverage
Liability insurance is essential. It covers any legal or medical expenses if you’re at fault in an accident. South Dakota mandates this coverage, but many drivers opt for higher limits than the state minimum to ensure full protection.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive insurance protects against non-collision damage. This includes theft, vandalism, fire, and even damage from wildlife—something particularly useful in South Dakota’s rural areas.
Collision Coverage
This coverage pays for damage to your vehicle if you hit another car or an object. It’s especially helpful if you’re involved in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Given that not everyone abides by insurance laws, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can protect you if you’re involved in an accident with someone who has no or insufficient insurance.
Medical Payments Coverage
This helps pay for medical expenses related to an accident, no matter who is at fault. It’s a useful option if you want additional protection for healthcare costs.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates in South Dakota
Several factors can influence the cost of car insurance in South Dakota:
- Driving record: A clean driving record will generally get you lower rates.
- Age and gender: Younger drivers and male drivers tend to have higher premiums.
- Type of vehicle: The make and model of your car play a role in determining rates.
- Location: Where you live in South Dakota affects your rate, especially urban versus rural areas.
- Credit score: Yes, your credit history can impact your car insurance rate, as insurers view it as an indicator of financial responsibility.
How to Get a Free Car Insurance Quote in South Dakota
There are several ways to get a free quote in South Dakota:
- Online comparison tools: Websites like Insure.com or The Zebra let you compare multiple quotes from various providers.
- Speak to agents: Local insurance agents often have insider knowledge of deals or discounts that online platforms might miss.
- Insurance company websites: You can get instant quotes directly from major providers like State Farm, GEICO, and Progressive by filling out a simple form.
The Importance of Comparing Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle for the first quote you get! Car insurance policies vary significantly between providers, even for the same level of coverage. By comparing multiple quotes, you can often save hundreds of dollars per year. You’ll also have a chance to evaluate different coverage options, ensuring you get the protection that best fits your needs.
Discounts to Look for When Getting a Quote
Look for discounts that can help lower your premium, including:
- Safe driver discounts
- Multi-car policies
- Bundling home and auto insurance
- Good student discounts
These discounts can reduce your premium by 5% to 20%, depending on the insurer.
How to Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums in South Dakota
If you’re looking to lower your car insurance premium, consider these strategies:
- Improve your credit score: Many insurers offer better rates to those with good credit.
- Increase your deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can lower your monthly premium.
- Practice safe driving habits: A clean driving record over time can unlock further savings.
Best Car Insurance Providers in South Dakota
Some of the best car insurance providers in the state include:
- State Farm: Known for strong customer service and competitive rates.
- GEICO: Offers affordable policies and excellent discounts.
- Progressive: Provides flexible policies, including customizable coverage options.
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in South Dakota
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Nationwide | $1,372 |
| Farmers | $1,410 |
| State Farm | $1,422 |
| GEICO | $1,579 |
| USAA | $1,610 |
| Allstate | $1,847 |
| Progressive | $2,386 |
South Dakota auto insurance laws
Car insurance is mandatory in almost every state, including South Dakota. If you choose the legal minimum coverage level in South Dakota, expect to pay an average of $254 annually. This expenditure is less expensive than the nationwide average by 53%.
State minimum coverage
In order to drive legally in the state of South Dakota, you must carry at least the minimum liability limits listed below:
Liability
- Bodily Injury $25,000 per person
- Bodily Injury $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage $25,000 per accident
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
- Bodily Injury $25,000 per person
- Bodily Injury $50,000 per accident
Optional coverage in South Dakota (varies by carrier):
- Comprehensive
- Collision
- Loan/Lease Payoff
- Medical Payments
- Rental Car Reimbursement
- Roadside Assistance
- Accidental Death
- Total Disability
If you opt for better coverage, you can choose a policy with comprehensive and collision, which will protect against the costs of car accidents, theft, vandalism, or weather incidents. But better coverage comes with a cost: in South Dakota, a comprehensive insurance policy with a $1,000 deductible costs $1,316, 418% more than liability-only car insurance. For a comprehensive policy with a $500 deductible, expect to pay 585% more than you would for basic coverage.
South Dakota car insurance premiums by rating factor
Your rates are determined by a number of individual factors, including your coverage level, driving history, location, and more. Explore average premium costs by rating factor below to get a better sense of how much you should be paying for auto insurance in South Dakota.
Cheap auto insurance in South Dakota for minimum coverage
Forgoing full coverage for liability-only at the state minimum level will make your car insurance significantly cheaper. In South Dakota, the average cost for minimum coverage is $21 per month, or $254 yearly — a savings of $1,485 compared to full coverage.
Cheap auto insurance in South Dakota for minimum coverage
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Progressive | $191 |
| USAA | $212 |
| GEICO | $269 |
| State Farm | $271 |
| Farmers | $333 |
| Nationwide | $360 |
| Allstate | $420 |
Cheap auto insurance in South Dakota with bad credit
Your credit history is an important factor in determining your car insurance rates. Many carriers see those with a poor credit score as being higher risk, meaning you could pay more for your policy. On average, South Dakota drivers with poor credit pay 61% more per year than those with exceptional credit. Have a look at some common rates by credit tier below.
Cheapest carrier for bad credit in South Dakota
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $7,453 |
| Progressive | $4,021 |
| USAA | $3,171 |
| Allstate | $2,743 |
| Farmers | $2,022 |
| Nationwide | $1,946 |
| GEICO | $1,930 |
Cheap auto insurance in South Dakota with an at-fault accident
Your driving history plays a big part in how much you pay. Insurance companies look for previous accidents for which you have been at fault to gauge the level of risk you pose as a customer. An at-fault accident in recent years could see your car insurance rates increase by as much as $649 per year.
Safe driver discounts
In addition to having a cheaper premium, some companies offer a safe driving discount. While the amount varies based on your company, it can range between 5 and 10%.
Cheapest carriers for at fault accidents in South Dakota
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $1,711 |
| Farmers | $1,830 |
| USAA | $2,071 |
| Nationwide | $2,196 |
| GEICO | $2,385 |
| Allstate | $2,487 |
| Progressive | $3,427 |
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in South Dakota
Young drivers — aged between 16 and 25 — pay very high car insurance rates, with those aged 16 to 19 paying the most expensive premiums of all. Because of the risk presented by inexperienced drivers, teen drivers pay more than three times the national average for car insurance. In South Dakota, teen drivers pay especially high rates: $4,515 per year — $281 less than the nationwide average and over twice as much as a typical South Dakota driver.
Cheapest Carriers for teen drivers in South Dakota
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Nationwide | $3,826 |
| USAA | $3,996 |
| State Farm | $4,321 |
| GEICO | $4,329 |
| Farmers | $4,869 |
| Progressive | $8,095 |
| Allstate | $8,596 |
South Dakota auto insurance rate by violation
In South Dakota, a bad driving record will cause your rates to skyrocket. If you receive a ticket or citation, your auto insurance premiums will probably rise. By how much depends on the violation, your insurer’s pricing standards, and differing local insurance regulations and risks. That’s why tickets may have a different impact on insurance in your state compared to the national average. Car insurance premiums typically increase by 93% after a DUI and 43% after a speeding ticket.
See below average auto insurance rates in South Dakota after a few common citations.
Rates by violation in South Dakota
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | % Rate Increase | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| One Med/PIP claim | $1,607 | 0% | $0 |
| None | $1,607 | 0% | $0 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $1,641 | 2% | $35 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $1,695 | 6% | $88 |
| One comp claim | $1,701 | 6% | $94 |
| Two comp claims | $1,751 | 9% | $144 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $1,772 | 10% | $165 |
| Driving without lights | $1,787 | 11% | $180 |
| Child safety restraint | $1,787 | 11% | $180 |
| Failure to show documents | $1,808 | 13% | $201 |
| Driving with expired registration | $1,828 | 14% | $221 |
| Driving too slowly | $1,840 | 15% | $233 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $1,850 | 15% | $243 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $1,855 | 15% | $248 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $1,859 | 16% | $252 |
| Cell phone violation | $1,864 | 16% | $257 |
| Texting while driving | $1,864 | 16% | $257 |
| Illegal turn | $1,865 | 16% | $258 |
| Failure to yield | $1,865 | 16% | $258 |
| Following too closely | $1,865 | 16% | $258 |
| Improper passing | $1,871 | 16% | $264 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $1,875 | 17% | $268 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $1,886 | 17% | $279 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $1,924 | 20% | $317 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $1,934 | 20% | $327 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $1,946 | 21% | $339 |
| Speeding in school zone | $1,992 | 24% | $385 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,035 | 27% | $428 |
| Passing school bus | $2,062 | 28% | $456 |
| Open container | $2,082 | 30% | $475 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $2,171 | 35% | $564 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $2,211 | 38% | $604 |
| Reckless driving | $2,649 | 65% | $1,042 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $2,692 | 68% | $1,085 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $2,832 | 76% | $1,226 |
| Racing | $2,879 | 79% | $1,272 |
| DUI | $2,948 | 83% | $1,341 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $3,022 | 88% | $1,415 |
South Dakota DUI laws
In South Dakota, a DUI offense can increase your annual car insurance premium by an average of $1,225. That’s 31% more than the national average rate hike after a DUI. Finding affordable auto insurance in the wake of a DUI violation isn’t simple. In fact, a DUI often brings about a bigger premium increase than any single road violation — more than an at-fault accident, racing, or reckless driving.
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in South Dakota
If you’re convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in South Dakota, it’s key to mull over each of your insurance choices carefully. Auto insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurer. For example, the least expensive car insurance company with a DUI in South Dakota, State Farm, advertises annual rates 26% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in South Dakota is Farmers, while the priciest firm is GEICO, with prices 50% above average.
CAR INSURANCE RATES WITH DUI IN SOUTH DAKOTA — BY INSURER
Cheapest insurance companies in South Dakota for drivers with a DUI
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $1,876 |
| Farmers | $2,117 |
| Progressive | $2,635 |
| Nationwide | $2,832 |
| USAA | $3,069 |
| Allstate | $3,081 |
| GEICO | $3,816 |
Rates by city
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, the location of the vehicle being an important one. The cheapest car insurance is found in ?, South Dakota, and the most expensive in ?, South Dakota.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of South Dakota’s biggest cities.
Cheapest rates by city in South Dakota
| City | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Brookings | $1,356 |
| Sioux Falls | $1,377 |
| Watertown | $1,378 |
| Aberdeen | $1,394 |
| Mitchell | $1,464 |
Car insurance price trends in South Dakota
In South Dakota, average annual auto insurance costs increased by $138 in the past year. A typical South Dakota driver pays an average of $1,578 per year.
The recent pricing trend in South Dakota leans closely to national car insurance costs. The steepest decrease occurred from 2017 to 2018, while the highest surge took place from 2018 to 2019. At the same time, car insurance rates across the United States have stayed relatively steady in the past few years, moving from $1,521 in 2018 to $1,529 in 2021.
SOUTH DAKOTA CAR INSURANCE RATE TRENDS
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — South Dakota | Yearly Change — South Dakota | Avg. Annual Premium — US | Yearly Change — US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $1,578 | $138 | $1,529 | $46 |
| 2020 | $1,440 | -$301 | $1,483 | -$61 |
| 2019 | $1,741 | $340 | $1,544 | $23 |
| 2018 | $1,401 | -$395 | $1,521 | $84 |
| 2017 | $1,796 | $234 | $1,437 | $69 |
| 2016 | $1,562 | -$323 | $1,368 | $88 |
| 2015 | $1,885 | $216 | $1,280 | $51 |
| 2014 | $1,669 | $155 | $1,229 | $34 |
| 2013 | $1,514 | -$63 | $1,195 | -$80 |
| 2012 | $1,577 | $323 | $1,276 | $82 |
South Dakota’s Unique Driving Conditions
Driving in South Dakota presents unique challenges:
- Rural roads: Wildlife such as deer can pose a hazard, especially at night.
- Winter weather: Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, so comprehensive and collision coverage are smart choices.
What to Do After an Accident in South Dakota
If you’re involved in an accident:
- Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if needed.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Document the scene with photos and notes.
- Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
SR-22 Insurance in South Dakota
If you’ve had serious driving violations, you might need SR-22 insurance. This isn’t a type of policy but a certificate proving you have the required insurance. It’s mandatory for drivers with certain violations, like DUIs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Car Insurance Quote
- Not disclosing all information: Omitting details can lead to inaccurate quotes.
- Overlooking coverage options: Don’t focus solely on price; ensure you’re covered adequately.
- Forgetting to ask about discounts: Always inquire about discounts you might qualify for!
FAQs about Car Insurance in South Dakota
What are the minimum car insurance requirements in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, drivers are required to have at least the following minimum coverage: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. This is often referred to as 25/50/25 coverage.
Is uninsured motorist coverage mandatory in South Dakota?
Yes, uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory in South Dakota. This coverage helps pay for damages caused by a driver who does not have insurance. The minimum limits are the same as the liability coverage minimums, at 25/50/25.
How does South Dakota’s no-fault insurance work?
South Dakota is not a no-fault state. This means that the driver who is at fault for an accident is responsible for paying the damages. In contrast, in a no-fault state, each driver’s insurance would cover their own injuries and damages without regard to who caused the accident.
What factors influence car insurance rates in South Dakota?
Several factors can affect your car insurance rates in South Dakota, including your driving history, age, the type of vehicle you drive, and your geographical location within the state. Other factors like your credit score and marital status may also impact your premiums.
Can I get discounts on car insurance in South Dakota?
Yes, many insurers offer discounts that can help lower your car insurance premiums. Common discounts include those for safe driving, being a good student, having multiple cars on one policy, or installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle. Check with your insurance provider to see what discounts are available.
What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident in South Dakota?
After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling for medical help if needed, it’s important to report the accident to the police, especially if it involves significant damage or injuries. Exchange insurance information with the other driver and document the accident scene with photos if possible. Notify your insurance provider as soon as you can to begin the claims process.
Conclusion
In summary, securing car insurance in South Dakota is not just a legal requirement; it’s a crucial step in safeguarding yourself, your finances, and your vehicle against unexpected incidents. The importance of having adequate coverage cannot be overstated, as it provides peace of mind and financial security in the face of accidents and theft.
When searching for the best car insurance, it’s essential to compare quotes and explore various options to find a policy that offers comprehensive coverage at a competitive price. Remember, the right car insurance policy isn’t just about meeting state requirements—it’s about ensuring that you’re well-protected in every journey you undertake.
With thoughtful research and careful consideration, you can secure a policy that fits your needs and budget perfectly.
References
For more detailed insights and to validate the information discussed in this guide on the best car insurance options in South Dakota, consider exploring the following reputable sources:
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – Access comprehensive data and compare national insurance standards with South Dakota’s policies to understand market trends and regulatory compliance. Check out their resources here.
- Insurance Information Institute – This site offers a wealth of information on various types of car insurance coverages, safety tips, and consumer insurance guides that can be beneficial for South Dakota residents. Click here for more details.
- Consumer Reports – Known for its unbiased reviews and in-depth research, Consumer Reports provides useful information on choosing the best car insurance companies and plans tailored to your needs in South Dakota. Explore their articles here.
Each of these resources provides valuable, in-depth information that can help you make well-informed decisions about car insurance in South Dakota.
