South Carolina Insurance Agencies by County

How to Lower Your Car Insurance in South Carolina (And How Insurance Companies Score You)

Trying to cut the cost of car insurance in South Carolina? Whether you’re commuting around Charleston, Columbia, or Greenville, driving I-95 and I-26, or dealing with coastal storms and hurricane season, there are smart ways to keep premiums down. This overview explains how South Carolina insurers evaluate drivers — and what you can do to save money.

How Car Insurance Companies in South Carolina Score You

• Driving history – Accidents, tickets, DUIs, and prior claims impact rates.
• Insurance score – Many insurers use credit-based insurance scoring.
• Location – Rates vary by county/city based on traffic density, theft risk, and claim frequency.
• Vehicle type – Repair costs, safety ratings, and theft risk affect pricing.
• Annual mileage – Lower mileage may qualify for discounts.
• Coverage choices – Higher limits/full coverage cost more; higher deductibles often reduce premiums.

10 Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance in South Carolina

1. Compare quotes from multiple insurers.
2. Bundle auto with home or renters insurance.
3. Maintain good credit.
4. Increase deductibles if financially comfortable.
5. Ask about telematics or usage-based programs.
6. Check all discounts (safe driver, multi-car, homeowner, good student, paid-in-full, autopay).
7. Consider liability-only on older vehicles.
8. Choose vehicles with lower repair costs and strong safety ratings.
9. Avoid coverage lapses.
10. Re-shop every 6–12 months.

South Carolina Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

South Carolina generally requires at least 25/50/25 in liability coverage — $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage per accident. Many drivers choose higher limits for better protection.

Coastal Storms, Flooding, and Comprehensive Coverage

South Carolina drivers may face hurricane-season wind damage, flooding in low-lying areas, and hail or storm-related losses inland. Comprehensive coverage can help protect your vehicle from non-collision losses such as theft, vandalism, falling objects, storm damage, and certain weather-related claims.

Use the county selector above to explore local insurance agencies in your area and compare options side-by-side.