News Summary
A recent report by Way.com highlights how driving records significantly affect car insurance rates in South Carolina. Walhalla emerges as the cheapest city for liability coverage, with American National offering the lowest premium at $25 per month. The analysis also shows how traffic violations can increase insurance costs, emphasizing the importance of a clean driving record. With varying average premiums across cities, residents must navigate their options wisely to secure affordable automobile insurance.
South Carolina residents seeking cheaper car insurance options can find rates significantly affected by their driving records, with traffic violations leading to increased premiums, according to a new report by Way.com’s data team. The analysis reveals varying average monthly premiums across different cities in the state, highlighting Walhalla as the cheapest place for liability coverage.
American National offers the most affordable liability coverage in South Carolina, charging only $25 per month. For those purchasing full coverage insurance, American National also provides the lowest rates at $57 per month. These rates significantly undercut many competitors in the market.
Other affordable options for liability insurance include American National P&C at $31, USAA at $36, Encompass at $37, and South Carolina Farm Bureau at $40. For full coverage, after American National P&C, the other cheap alternatives are South Carolina Farm Bureau at $74, American National at $83, Auto-Owners Insurance Co at $85, and American Family at $129.
The average monthly premiums for car insurance differ significantly throughout South Carolina. The city with the lowest average premium is Walhalla, where drivers pay around $132 monthly. Other cities with low premiums include Salem at $133, Newry at $134, Seneca at $134, and West Union with an average of $134 as well. In contrast, cities with the highest premiums are Miley and Crocketville, where the average cost is $198 per month, followed closely by Canadys at $195, Estill at $190, and North Charleston at $189.
Impact of Traffic Violations on Premiums
Traffic violations have a pronounced effect on auto insurance rates in South Carolina. A clean driving record typically yields an average premium of $202. However, the presence of violations can raise premiums significantly. For example, a not-at-fault accident raises the average rate to $213. Other notable increases include:
- Failure to wear a seat belt: $231
- Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over the limit: $253
- Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over the limit: $257
- DUI: $319
- Reckless driving: $327
- Driving with a suspended license: $328
- Leaving the scene of an accident or hit and run: $340
Background Context
The data revealing these insights was gathered from both public and internal sources, hinting at a comprehensive view of the auto insurance market in South Carolina. As consumers continue to navigate the insurance landscape, understanding these rates and factors affecting them, such as city location and driving history, is crucial for making informed decisions about coverage. With a combination of affordable options and the impact of driving records, South Carolina residents have various considerations to weigh when shopping for car insurance.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Santa Fe New Mexican: Car Insurance Rates in South Carolina
- AOL News: Car Insurance Rates in South Carolina
- Watauga Democrat: Car Insurance Rates in North Carolina
- Tribune Ledger News: Car Insurance Rates in South Carolina
- Insurify: Car Insurance Insights by State
- Wikipedia: Car Insurance
- Google Search: Car Insurance South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Car Insurance
- Google Scholar: Car Insurance South Carolina
- Google News: Car Insurance South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
