Minimum Requirements in South Carolina for SR-22 Policies

Individuals with driving records that are less than perfect might find that auto insurance rates are higher, but if you have a history of repeated moving violations, you may be considered a high-risk driver by insurers. If so, you may need to file an SR-22 with the DMV in order to remain compliant with state law.

An SR-22 isn’t insurance and doesn’t offer protection in the event of an auto accident. Instead, it confirms that you have enrolled in auto insurance that meets, if not exceeds, the minimum coverage limits required in South Carolina. Once you’ve enrolled in your new policy, your insurer will file your SR-22 with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.

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High-risk drivers in some states might be familiar with the FR-44 form, and while it’s similar in function to the SR-22, it isn’t required in South Carolina. Motorists should expect their auto insurance rates to be higher while they have an SR-22 on their driving record, but over time and with good driving habits, you may be able to obtain insurance without this requirement.

Additional Coverage South Carolina Drivers Should Consider

Obtaining auto insurance that meets the minimum requirements set forth by the state of South Carolina is a must, but some drivers want to focus on having the most robust policy possible in the event of an accident. If your budget for car insurance is rather large, you may want to consider adding some of these additional coverages:

Uninsured motorist bodily injury (or UMBI) helps cover your own medical bills after an accident if the other party is either uninsured or underinsured. If you have both PIP and UMBI protection, it’s likely that your PIP would pay toward your claim first, as it generally offers smaller limits of coverage.

If you’re looking for even more robust coverage toward medical expenses, MedPay might be a smart option to consider. While PIP may help with lost wages in addition to medical costs, MedPay can offer a greater level of funds for medical and funeral expenses.

Many drivers want to feel secure on the road in the event of a flat tire or a mechanical breakdown, and roadside assistance is a great option to offer the ultimate peace of mind. This feature is often quite affordable, and taking advantage of it usually won’t lead to an increase in your car insurance rates.

Remember, your auto insurance policy has to meet your specific driving needs, and while some motorists may want every option available, others might pick and choose which types of additional coverage make the most sense for them. It’s smart to get several auto insurance quotes with various options to get an idea of how much your premiums might be.