Q.  What are the minimum limits of liability coverage and uninsured motorist Coverage required in South Carolina? Is underinsured motorist coverage required?

A.  $25,000 bodily injury per person

    $50,000 bodily injury per accident

    $25,000 property damage per accident

    Underinsured motorist coverage is not required.

Q.  What is the minimum requirement of insurance on a vehicle of any type beside your own personal automobile? For example, a dump truck?

A.  The Department of Highways and Public Safety requires liability and uninsured motorist with limits of 25/50/25. Also check with the Public Service Commission at 803-896-5230 for additional information.

Q.  Is South Carolina a no‑fault or at‑fault state?

A.  We are a tort liability state, which means the not-at-fault person can pursue a claim against the at-fault party.

Q.  Can a company refuse to insure me?

A.  Yes, as of 3/1/99 there is no mandate to write automobile insurance. You must shop around to find a company that will insure you. If you can not find a company to insure you then, you will need to contact the Joint Underwriting Association (JUA) 1-803-779-0092

Q.  When can my automobile liability insurance be canceled?

A.  Automobile liability insurance can be canceled if you failed to pay your premiums on time and between the 61-90 day of a new policy for any reason.

Q.  When can my automobile comprehensive and collision coverage be canceled?

A.  This coverage can be canceled for any reason during the first 90 days.

Q.  Does my liability insurance cover my broken windshield?

A.  No, comprehensive insurance covers broken windshields. The deductible is waived for private passenger vehicles.

Q.  Does the insurance company have to notify you when your renewal insurance premium is due?

A.  Yes, the law requires 15 days prior notice. Most companies mail renewal notices 30-45 days before the policy renewal effective date.

Q.  Does the automobile policy contain a grace period for paying the renewal premium?

A.  No. There is no required grace period for the payment of a renewal premium. The policy actually expires at the end of the policy period, if premium is not received by that date.

Q.  The agent quoted me one premium and the company sent me a bill for $500 more. Must I pay?

A.  Agent's quotes are not binding on a company. Your policy must be rated in accordance with rules and rates set by your insurance company.