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Car Insurance
Columbia SC
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Written by: Andrew Brown
Quality Checked by: Samantha Reed
South Carolina is one of the states with the highest car insurance rates in the US. According to research, South Carolinians pay an average of $1,381 for auto insurance coverage each year. This rate is significantly higher than the national average of $1,237. There are a few factors that contribute to South Carolina’s expensive car insurance rates including an increased risk for weather-related damage and a high number of uninsured drivers. South Carolinians should also be aware that some zip codes may have higher premiums due to crime or accident rates in the area. Knowing this information can help South Carolinians save money by shopping around for more affordable policies. Additionally, Columbia drivers can look into various discounts offered by companies such as those for safe driving or multiple cars. South Carolinians should also consider raising their deductible to reduce their premium costs. Taking all of these factors into account can help South Carolinians save on auto insurance.
| Age of Driver | Insurance Cost |
|---|---|
| Teens | $3,245 |
| 20 Years | $1,285 |
| 30 Years | $990 |
| 40 Years | $952 |
| 50 Years | $882 |
| 60 Years | $894 |
| 70 Years | $1,041 |
South Carolina has some of the most affordable auto insurance rates in the US. While South Carolina offers a variety of discounts and incentives to help keep premiums low, young Columbia drivers still tend to pay more for their coverage than older drivers. South Carolina requires that all drivers have automobile liability insurance, regardless of age. Depending on your driving record and other factors, rates can vary significantly between young and older drivers.
Younger Columbia drivers are considered higher risk due to their inexperience behind the wheel and potential for reckless behavior, which is why they usually pay more for auto insurance coverage. South Carolina law sets minimum limits requirements for liability coverage; however, many insurers offer additional coverage options that may be desirable or even necessary based on an individual’s driving history and other factors.
For Columbia residents, the minimum amount of liability coverage is 25/50/25; this means that if you are involved in an accident, your insurance company will cover up to $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injuries, and $25,000 for property damage. Young drivers may find it beneficial to purchase more than the state’s minimum requirements in order to keep their premiums lower and protect themselves financially in the event of an accident.
In Columbia, auto insurance rates are highest among young drivers due to their higher risk profile. Rates generally decline with age until around age 50 or 55 when they begin to increase slightly due to increases in medical costs. South Carolina residents may be able to find additional savings by comparing rates and bundling coverage with multiple providers. Additionally, South Carolinians can take advantage of the state’s Good Driver Discount program which rewards drivers who maintain a clean driving record over time with lower premiums.
Overall, South Carolina offers reasonably affordable auto insurance rates for both young and older drivers. While young Columbia drivers are likely to pay more than their older counterparts, they may be able to save money by taking steps such as shopping around for competitive rates and taking advantage of any discounts or incentives that South Carolina provides.
|
| Auto Owners | State Farm | Geico | Southern Farm Bureau | Travelers |
| NAIC Market Share | 1.28% | 16.14% | 13.45% | 0.22% | 13.45% |
| S&P Global Ratings | AA- | AA | AA+ | AAA | A++ |
| Average Full Coverage Yearly Premium | $594 | $$715 | $714 | $885 | $1,315 |
| Discount Rating | 4 stars | 5 stars | 5 stars | 4 stars | 4 stars |
|
| Auto Owners | State Farm | Geico | Southern Farm Bureau | Travelers |
| NAIC Market Share | 1.28% | 16.14% | 13.45% | 0.22% | 13.45% |
| S&P Global Ratings | AA- | AA | AA+ | AAA | A++ |
| Average Full Coverage Yearly Premium | $594 | $$715 | $714 | $885 | $1,315 |
| Discount Rating | 4 stars | 5 stars | 5 stars | 4 stars | 4 stars |
|
| Auto Owners | State Farm | Geico | Southern Farm Bureau | Travelers |
| NAIC Market Share | 1.28% | 16.14% | 13.45% | 0.22% | 13.45% |
| S&P Global Ratings | AA- | AA | AA+ | AAA | A++ |
| Average Full Coverage Yearly Premium | $594 | $$715 | $714 | $885 | $1,315 |
| Discount Rating | 4 stars | 5 stars | 5 stars | 4 stars | 4 stars |
7356 Garners Ferry Rd #100, Columbia, SC 29209
(803) 776-4577
http://www.metro-auto-insurance.com/
7546 Garners Ferry Rd Suite 700G, Columbia, SC 29209
(803) 234-3245
https://local.directauto.com/south-carolina/columbia/7546-garners-ferry-road
7384A Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
(803) 699-3883
https://local.directauto.com/south-carolina/columbia/7384a-two-notch-road
7352 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
(803) 392-0032
https://www.freewayinsurance.com/office-locator/columbia-car-insurance-sc-29223
3315 Broad River Rd Ste 170, Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 335-0828
https://www.freewayinsurance.com/office-locator/columbia-car-insurance-sc-29210
7234 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209
(803) 776-5000
http://www.aiaauto.com/
Finding the best car insurance in Columbia requires researching several different companies and options available. When comparing rates and coverage, South Carolinians should consider their driving history, the type of vehicle they own, and the features they need from an insurer. South Carolina drivers can benefit from researching multiple providers to find the most affordable premiums as well as any discounts or loyalty rewards that may be applicable. The South Carolina Department of Insurance is a great resource for consumers looking to compare car insurance policies in South Carolina and understand what metrics insurers use to decide premium rates. South Carolinians should also acquire quotes from several different companies before committing to a policy.
| Driving Infraction Type | Average Annual Premium | Potential Quote Savings |
| DUI | $5069 | $990 |
| Reckless Driving | $4946 | $988 |
| Wrong Way/Wrong Lane | $4154 | $941 |
| Driving on Sus. License | $4108 | $927 |
| Illegal Turn | $4094 | $912 |
| Failure to Obey Traffic Sign | $4063 | $873 |
| Speeding over 15 | $3941 | $859 |
| Defective Equipment | $3548 | $785 |
| Speeding under 15 | $2676 | $775 |
High-risk driving behaviors can come with a steep price in Columbia. Drivers who have traffic violations on their record could face increased insurance premiums as a result of the higher risk associated with their driving patterns. South Carolina has a point system that assigns points to drivers for infractions like speeding, running red lights or stop signs, and other moving violations. The more points accumulated by a driver, the higher their insurance premium will be. South Carolina also has laws prohibiting distracted driving and aggressive driving, both of which come with penalties that can cause insurance premiums to increase significantly. Additionally, South Carolina requires all drivers to carry auto liability insurance at minimum levels set forth in state law, or else face hefty fines and suspension of license privileges.
| Credit Rating | Average Rate |
| Average of All Credit Ratings | $1393 |
| Below Fair | $2427 |
| Poor | $2765 |
| Worst | $3159 |
The answer is yes! Your credit score can have a significant impact on what you pay for South Carolina auto insurance. In Columbia, insurers are allowed to use your credit score as part of the process when determining your car insurance rate. Studies have shown that those with higher credit scores tend to get cheaper quotes than those with lower scores. That means if you want to save money on South Carolina auto insurance, it's important to keep an eye on your credit score and work hard to build and maintain it. Doing so will help ensure you get the best possible rate when shopping for South Carolina auto insurance.
Columbia South Carolina is home to some of the most popular car dealerships in the country, offering incredible deals and amazing prices. However, when you're shopping around for a new car, don't forget to factor in all of your monthly expenses — including insurance, registration fees, fuel costs, maintenance fees and more — before signing on the dotted line. By doing this research ahead of time, you can make sure that the vehicle won't break the bank or leave you with an unmanageable payment plan once it's time to hit the road.
Compare vehicle costs and car insurance rates across various cities within your state, such as the following 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the average costs and potential savings. By doing so, you can identify any discrepancies between total costs and better evaluate your current vehicle purchase and insurance plan. This can also provide insight into factors that may affect total costs, such as local crime rates, population density, and frequency of natural disasters.
When shopping for car insurance in Columbia, it is important to understand the different types of coverage available. The two main options are full coverage and liability only insurance. Full coverage offers additional protection beyond what is required by South Carolina laws and includes comprehensive and collision coverages, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. Liability-only policies provide just the minimum limits required to meet South Carolina’s legal requirements and do not include any additional protections or benefits. Knowing which option is right for you depends on your budget, driving habits, and other factors.
Full coverage policies are typically more expensive than liability-only policies because they offer more extensive coverage that often covers damage to your vehicle as well as property damage and bodily injury to other drivers. Comprehensive coverage is a good option for Columbia drivers because it covers damage to your car from events like theft, vandalism, weather-related incidents, and accidents with animals or debris. Collision coverage also helps cover the cost of repair or replacement after an accident that is your fault. Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection pays for medical costs if you are hit by someone without insurance or inadequate limits.
Liability-only policies offer Columbia drivers the minimum amount of coverage required by law and typically come at a lower cost than full coverage policies. Liability insurance only pays for property damage and bodily injury to other drivers when you are found at fault in an accident; it will not pay for any damages to your own vehicle. South Carolina drivers can opt for higher liability limits to better protect themselves in the event of an accident, but even then, a liability-only policy won’t provide the same coverage as full coverage.
As a Columbia parent, you want to make sure your teen is properly covered when they get behind the wheel. Auto insurance for teens can be expensive in South Carolina, but there are some ways to find affordable coverage. Here are a few tips for getting auto insurance coverage for teenagers in South Carolina:
If you are a senior living in Columbia, it's important to make sure that you get the best car insurance coverage for your specific needs. South Carolina has laws and requirements when it comes to auto insurance coverage, so having the right policy can help protect you in case of an accident or other incident. Whether you’re looking for basic liability coverage or more comprehensive options such as collision and comprehensive policies, there are plenty of companies that offer car insurance plans tailored towards seniors. Here is some information on South Carolina's car insurance requirements as well as tips on finding the best plan for your situation.
Columbia South Carolina requires all drivers have at least liability insurance with minimum coverage limits of 25/50/25: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident and $25,000 for property damage. South Carolina also requires uninsured motorist coverage with minimum limits of 25/50/20: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident in bodily injury; and $20,000 in property damage. South Carolina does not require personal injury protection or medical payments coverage.
If you are a Columbia driver, you may need SR-22 insurance. This type of coverage is required for drivers who have been convicted of certain traffic violations or if your license has been suspended or revoked. South Carolina requires that any driver whose driving privileges have been suspended must provide proof of financial responsibility to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). The best way to prove this is by filing an SR-22 with your South Carolina auto insurance provider.
The most common offenses that require SR-22 filing in Columbia SC are: DUI/DWI convictions; multiple moving violations; not having valid liability insurance at the time of the offense; and being involved in an accident while uninsured. If any of these apply to you, South Carolina law requires that you obtain SR-22 insurance in order to get your license reinstated.
South Carolina SR-22 insurance must be maintained for three years from the date of reinstatement. If the policy is canceled or lapses during this time period, South Carolina may suspend your license again and require you to start the process over from the beginning. It's important to contact your Columbia South Carolina auto insurance provider for more information about what kind of coverage is required for filing an SR-22 form with South Carolina’s SCDMV.
Columbia drivers have a choice between two of the leading car insurance providers, Geico and Allstate. Both offer competitive rates and a wide variety of coverage options to fit any budget. To make sure you get the best deal for your South Carolina auto insurance needs, it's important to compare both Geico and Allstate in terms of cost, customer service, coverage, discounts and more.
When it comes to cost, Geico usually offers lower base rates than Allstate in Columbia. However, Allstate is known for offering more discounts on top of their already competitive rates. These discounts range from standard offerings like good driver discounts or multi-policy discounts to loyalty rewards such as longevity credits or accident forgiveness if you stay with the company for more than a year.
When it comes to customer service and claims, Columbia drivers report mostly positive experiences with both Geico and Allstate. Both companies offer 24/7 customer support, as well as easy-to-use mobile apps that make filing a claim or checking your policy status simple and convenient.
In terms of coverage options, Columbia drivers will find that Geico offers customizable coverage plans and add-ons to fit their individual needs. They also have specialized coverage such as rental car reimbursement and rideshare insurance policies if you use a ride sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Allstate offers similar coverages, but they are more tailored to an older demographic that may need additional protection for elderly parents and guardians.
Finally, Columbia drivers should compare the discounts and perks available through each provider. Geico offers various discounts, including military discounts, good student discounts, multi-policy discounts and more. Allstate also has a variety of discounts, but they are best known for their loyalty rewards such as accident forgiveness if you stay with the company for more than a year.
When it comes to car insurance, Columbia drivers have their choice between Nationwide and Progressive. Both of these major insurers offer competitive rates, discounts and benefits for South Carolina drivers. However, there are key differences that could influence which one South Carolinians may want to choose.
Nationwide offers Columbia drivers a range of coverage options with excellent discounts such as multi-policy and multi-car discounts, good student discounts, defensive driver discount and accident forgiveness. The company also provides 24/7 customer service with access to local agents throughout the state.
Progressive is known for its exceptional online tools including Name Your Price Tool that allows customers to create customized coverage packages at an affordable price. The company also offers Columbia drivers multiple discounts including multi-policy and multi-car discounts as well as good student discounts. Furthermore, Progressive also offers a variety of coverage options with flexible payment plans and 24/7 customer service.
Ultimately South Carolinians will have to weigh up their individual needs when deciding which insurer is right for them. Both Nationwide and Progressive offer competitive rates, discounts and benefits in Columbia so it is worth researching both companies to compare the two before making a decision.
It's never been easier to shop around for affordable car insurance. You can use online tools to instantly get quotes from car insurance companies in Columbia, South Carolina. You can also compare rates to other cities in your state such as these: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
Make sure to get the right amount of coverage you need. Do you only need Liability insurace, which provides minimum coverage? Some people require Full Coverage, especially when the car is financed.
Once you've done the research, comparison shopped the rates you found, and figured out your discounts, you're now ready to buy the best and cheapest car insurance in Columbia, SC. If you're looking for coverage after a DUI conviction then take a look at South Carolina SR-22.
Bundling auto and homeowners insurance in Columbia promises potential savings and convenience by combining both coverages under a single policy. The advantages of bundling include potential cost reductions and streamlined management. Columbia insurance companies often offer discounts to policyholders who bundle their auto and homeowners insurance, resulting in noticeable savings. This consolidated approach simplifies paperwork, provides a single point of contact for inquiries and claims, and streamlines payments. However, it's crucial to evaluate the coverage and terms of the bundled policy to ensure they align with your specific needs. Bundling may limit your flexibility to choose different providers and access specialized coverage options.
While bundling auto and homeowners insurance offers cost savings and convenience, it's important to consider individual circumstances and insurance requirements. Factors such as location, asset value, driving record, and home characteristics can influence the cost and coverage of the policies. For example, check out the different rates of each of these locations numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Assessing potential benefits against specific needs will determine whether bundling is truly worth the savings. Comparing quotes, reviewing policy details, and considering alternatives are essential steps to ensure you have the right coverage in Columbia at the best price. Ultimately, making an informed decision will lead to a suitable insurance solution.
The materials on this website have been created for informational purposes only and are not intended as legal advice. The law changes frequently and the information may not be complete or correct depending on a number of factors.
Meet our car insurance expert, Andrew Brown. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Andrew has become an authority in the world of car insurance. Throughout his career, he has helped countless individuals and families find the right coverage for their unique needs and budget. With his in-depth knowledge of the industry, Andrew is dedicated to providing helpful tips, advice, and insights to empower drivers to make informed decisions about their car insurance.
