Auto Insurance In South Dakota: Minimum Requirements Explained

In South Dakota, drivers are legally required to have auto liability coverage, including bodily injury liability and property damage liability, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. The minimum coverage requirements in South Dakota are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Uninsured motorist coverage is also mandatory and must match the policyholder's chosen liability limits.

Bodily injury liability coverage

In South Dakota, bodily injury liability coverage is a mandatory component of the minimum auto insurance requirements. This coverage protects you from claims made by someone injured in an auto accident for which you are liable.

The minimum bodily injury liability coverage in South Dakota is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This means that if you are found to be at fault for an accident, your insurance will cover the medical expenses of the injured person or people, up to $25,000 per person and $50,000 in total. This coverage also includes legal fees if the other party sues you, up to the stated limit.

While these are the minimum required limits, purchasing higher coverage amounts may better protect you and your family financially. It is important to consider your specific circumstances and choose coverage limits that provide adequate protection.

In South Dakota, you are required by law to have auto insurance that includes bodily injury liability coverage. Failure to carry the minimum required coverage can result in fines, suspension of your driver's license, and even jail time.

Property damage liability coverage

The minimum coverage limit for Property Damage Liability in South Dakota is $25,000 per accident. This means that if you are found to be at fault in an accident, your insurance will cover the cost of repairing or replacing the other person's property up to a maximum of $25,000. This typically includes damage to another vehicle, but it could also apply to any other type of property damaged in the accident, such as buildings or fences.

It is important to note that if the cost of damages exceeds the amount of your coverage, you will be responsible for paying the remaining cost out of pocket. Therefore, it is recommended to consider choosing a higher limit for this coverage, especially if you own a home or other expensive items, frequently travel in high-traffic areas, or live in an area with many expensive vehicles.

Additionally, Property Damage Liability Coverage does not include damage to your own vehicle. If you want protection for your own car, you would need to purchase separate collision or comprehensive insurance, which is not required by South Dakota law but may be mandated by your lender or leasing company.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

In South Dakota, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is mandatory and included in all auto insurance policies. This coverage protects you in the event that you are hit by a driver who is uninsured or underinsured. Uninsured motorist coverage pays for personal injuries caused by an uninsured motorist or a hit-and-run driver, while underinsured motorist coverage is for personal injuries caused by a motorist with inadequate insurance.

In South Dakota, the minimum coverage limits for uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury are $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This means that if you are injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your insurance will cover your medical costs up to $25,000 per person, with a maximum of $50,000 total per accident. These coverage limits are the same as the minimum required bodily injury liability coverage limits in South Dakota.

While South Dakota requires uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, the specific details of this coverage can vary by insurer. It is important to review your insurance policy carefully to understand the limits and exclusions of your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Additionally, you may have the option to increase your coverage limits if you feel that the minimum limits are not sufficient for your needs.

Collision coverage

In South Dakota, drivers are required to carry minimum auto insurance to legally operate a vehicle. This includes bodily injury liability, property damage liability, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. While collision coverage is not mandated by the state, it is often recommended by agents and officials and can provide valuable protection in the event of a crash.

In South Dakota, collision coverage is particularly important if you have a newer or higher-value vehicle. It can provide peace of mind and financial protection in the event of an accident, ensuring that you can repair or replace your car without incurring significant costs.

When purchasing collision coverage, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs. Higher limits are available for purchase if you require greater coverage. It is important to remember that collision coverage does not include injuries or medical expenses, which are covered under other types of insurance.

While not mandatory, collision coverage can be a valuable addition to your auto insurance policy in South Dakota. It can help protect you financially and ensure that you are not left without a vehicle in the event of a crash. By understanding the benefits and limitations of collision coverage, you can make an informed decision about whether to include it in your auto insurance plan.

Medical payments coverage

The maximum limit of liability for each person injured in any one accident must be specified in the policy declarations for coverage. MedPay coverage can be purchased up to a limit of $25,000.

Frequently asked questions