South Carolina Trucking Insurance Requirements

Insurance requirements and costs for trucking in South Carolina.

Minimum Liability and Coverage

South Carolina follows federal minimums: $750,000 for general freight, $1 million for hazmat. For intrastate carriers, the PSC requires $750,000 minimum liability. South Carolina follows a modified comparative fault system (51% bar). The state's court system produces moderate jury verdicts overall, though some Lowcountry jurisdictions can produce above-average awards. Total annual insurance for a South Carolina owner-operator runs $9,500-$16,500. Primary liability averages $7,000-$12,000. The state's moderate legal environment and growing but still relatively affordable market keep costs competitive.

Workers' Compensation

South Carolina requires workers' compensation insurance for employers with four or more employees. The Workers' Compensation Commission administers the program. Workers' comp premiums for trucking average $8-$12 per $100 of payroll. Employers with fewer than four employees are exempt but can elect coverage. Owner-operators need occupational accident insurance at $120-$300 per month. South Carolina's workers' comp system is considered employer-friendly with moderate benefit levels. The South Carolina Trucking Association provides insurance resources and group program information.

FAQs — South Carolina Trucking Insurance

Primary liability averages $7,000-$12,000 annually. Total insurance runs $9,500-$16,500 — near the national average. Moderate courts and a growing but competitive market keep costs reasonable. Hurricane coastal risk increases physical damage premiums for Lowcountry carriers.

Yes, for employers with four or more employees. Smaller employers are exempt. The Workers' Compensation Commission administers the program. Trucking premiums average $8-$12 per $100 of payroll. Owner-operators need occupational accident insurance at $120-$300/month.