Most states require motorcycle insurance, and South Carolina is no exception. State-required insurance is designed to make sure you can pay for damages after causing a wreck. As such, South Carolina requires motorcyclists to carry:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability
Bodily injury liability provides compensation for medical expenses if you cause an accident that results in bodily injury to the driver or their passengers. This coverage can also help with legal expenses if the victims decide to sue.
Property damage liability provides compensation for damages you cause to someone else's property while operating the insured motorcycle.
Is South Carolina A Fault Or No Fault State?
South Carolina is a fault state, meaning that the driver who is determined at-fault for the accident is held liable for the damages or injuries that occur due to the accident. This also allows the victim to sue the at-fault driver.
What Motorcycle Insurance Is Not Required?
There are many motorcycle coverages that are not required by the state, but are incredibly important, nonetheless. Basic liability insurance doesn't cover injuries to you or your passengers. It also doesn't cover damage done to your motorcycle due to collision or other incidents.
On top of the required liability insurance, it's recommended that motorcyclists carry:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage covers damages to your motorcycle caused by fire, theft, vandalism, wind, hail and more.
- Collision Coverage: Collision coverage covers damages to your motorcycle caused by a collision with another vehicle or an object.
- Guest Passenger Liability: If you cause an accident with a passenger on your bike, guest passenger liability helps with the cost of their medical expenses.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage helps with the cost of damages if you crash with a driver who isn’t carrying insurance.
Each motorcycle is different. Vehicles modified for speed or with expensive customized parts will need more coverage than slower, older motorcycles. Keep in mind that South Carolina also has laws for motorcycles aside from insurance. Motorcyclists must carry a full provisional license with a motorcycle learner's permit or a motorcycle endorsement, or a regular drivers license with a motorcycle learner's permit or a motorcycle endorsement.
Make sure your motorcycle is up to regulation concerning the exhaust system, mirrors, brake lights, registration and motorcycle insurance so you can drive safely and legally.
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