South Carolina law requires drivers to carry auto insurance that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements. This coverage helps pay for accident-related costs and protects you if an uninsured driver causes the crash.
At Query Sautter & Uricchio LLC, our car accident attorneys help people injured in Charleston and throughout South Carolina pursue compensation after a crash. This article explains South Carolina’s auto insurance requirements and why you need coverage when an accident happens.
What Auto Insurance Does South Carolina Require?
Under Section 38-77-140 of the South Carolina Code, the minimum liability limits are:
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$25,000 for bodily injury to one person
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$50,000 for bodily injury to two or more people in one accident
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$25,000 for property damage in one accident
Liability coverage pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. It doesn’t cover your own injuries or damage to your vehicle.
South Carolina also requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which protects you when the driver who causes the accident has no liability insurance. Insurers must also offer underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. UIM is optional and applies when the at-fault driver’s policy limits aren’t enough to cover your losses.
Why Do You Need Auto Insurance After an Accident?
Auto insurance protects you from the financial impact of a car accident by helping cover medical bills, lost income, vehicle damage, and other accident-related losses.
Having insurance also means an insurer can handle covered claims made against you and provide a legal defense when required under your policy.
What Should You Do if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, report the accident to your insurance company and ask about the uninsured motorist coverage included in your policy. You can use this coverage to seek compensation when the driver who caused the crash doesn’t have liability insurance.
You should also gather records that support your claim. Keep a copy of the police report to document what happened, along with medical records and financial documents that show how the accident affected you.
If your insurer disputes fault or denies coverage, a car accident attorney can review your policy and help you pursue the compensation you’re entitled to seek.
Consequences of Driving Without Insurance in South Carolina
Driving an uninsured vehicle can lead to criminal penalties and the loss of driving privileges. South Carolina Code § 56-10-520 classifies the offense as a misdemeanor. A first conviction carries a fine of $100 to $200 or up to 30 days in jail. The law also provides for suspension of driving privileges and, for vehicle owners, vehicle registration and license plates.
If you cause an accident while uninsured, you can also be personally responsible for the resulting damages.
Get Help With Your Car Accident Claim in Charleston
Auto insurance provides important financial protection after a crash, but recovering compensation can still involve disputes over fault or coverage. When that happens, understanding the policy and the evidence supporting your claim becomes especially important.
Query Sautter & Uricchio LLC can review your coverage and help you pursue the compensation available after an accident. Contact us today or call 843-795-9500 to discuss your case.