Auto Coverage in South Dakota
South Dakota Auto Insurance
Drivers in South Dakota must take financial responsibility in case of an accident by either carrying an auto insurance policy or opening a $50,000 Certificate of Deposit with the South Dakota State Treasurer's Office. Proof of their choice of coverage must be kept in their vehicles at all times – either with a valid auto insurance ID Card, or with the Certificate of Deposit.
Minimum South Dakota auto insurance
Drivers in the state of South Dakota who choose to purchase auto insurance over their other options, must keep the following in minimum liability coverage:
- Bodily Injury and Death: $25,000 to cover one person in any one accident, and $50,000 to cover all injuries
- Property Damages: $25,000
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 to cover one person and $50,000 for all injuries
Since South Dakota is a tort state, one of the drivers involved in any auto collision must be found at fault for causing the accident. The driver who is at fault will be responsible for paying for all the damages, and this payment is usually handled through their insurance company. This is why it is important to have enough insurance coverage, because paying for all the medical bills for all drivers and passengers, as well as vehicle and property damages can be very costly. If your insurance doesn't cover the costs, you'll end up paying out of pocket.
Penalties without South Dakota auto insurance
For South Dakota drivers who don't have auto insurance or other financial responsibility measures taken, there can be heavy penalties. Drivers may have their licenses suspended for one month to a year, and they can be fined $100 – or even face jail time. With a suspended license, there are further fees to reinstate your license when you're finally allowed to drive again.