South Dakota Auto Insurance

South Dakota auto insurance policies are among the most affordable in the country. But don't let that keep you from taking a close look at your coverage costs.

This guide:

  • Explains South Dakota car insurance regulations and requirements

  • Describes how South Dakota auto insurance rates are decided

  • Shows you how you can save money by comparing multiple quotes

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South Dakota auto insurance laws

South Dakota is considered a tort state, which means that drivers bear financial responsibility for any damage and injury they cause in an accident. South Dakota auto insurance laws require liability insurance to help cover these expenses.

South Dakota's liability minimums are 25/50/25. (That's $25,000 per person for injuries you cause to the other party, up to $50,000 for all, and $25,000 for damage you cause to the other party's property.) However, insurance experts recommend carrying higher levels of coverage.

South Dakota auto insurance laws also require drivers to carry uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. This policy helps cover the cost of your injuries should you be struck by a driver with inadequate liability insurance.

In addition to required policies, South Dakota drivers may choose to purchase coverage for some "first party benefits". These include compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, and accidental death or disability. They are not large policies, but they do apply to every accident regardless of fault.

South Dakota auto insurance companies will also offer optional policies such as collision and comprehensive coverages.

How South Dakota car insurance rates are set

For better or for worse, the price of South Dakota auto insurance is decided by the behavior of the state's drivers as a whole. South Dakota auto insurance companies take the cost of insuring South Dakota drivers (this includes settlements and legal fees) and divide it up among the drivers.

But the cost isn't spread around evenly. Instead, the percentage you pay is decided by things like your driving record, your age, where you live, and the kind of car you drive.

Of course, not all insurance companies compute their figures in the same manner. So they'll charge different rates on the same driver.

What this means for you as a driver, is that you need to shop the different rates (and they'll be very different!) for the best deal. It's the fastest easiest way to save on an South Dakota auto insurance policy. And you don't have to change a thing.

Fortunately,shopping around is easy to do online.

Where you can get South Dakota auto insurance quotes

The following web sites will help you find South Dakota car insurance quotes: (these links will open in a new window)

  • ComparisonMarket is the best online insurance shopping service. This is where you'll save the most money, in the least amount of time.

Click here for your quote.

Others:

  • Netquote is very helpful if you want a local agent to contact you, to help you iron out the details of your policy, and possibly save you more money.

  • Geico - a great service, especially for those who can't get insured elsewhere. Be sure to complete the entire quote form!

  • Get quotes using your ZIP Code! You'll find insurers who offer quotes tailored specifically to your area:

More SD car insurance advice and help

If you want more help designing your SD auto insurance policy, read our guide to setting safe and reasonable car insurance coverage levels. It contains loads of money-saving tips, too.

To find out more about SD auto insurance laws and regulations, visit the state's official website of the South Dakota Department of Commerce & Regulation, Division of Insurance.

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