Dairyland auto insurance review: A high-risk insurance option

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Editors’ take: Dairyland auto insurance could be a good option for people with less-than-perfect driving records who are looking for high-risk auto insurance policies. But drivers who are looking for cheap coverage options may want to look elsewhere.

Dairyland auto insurance at a glance

AvailabilityAvailable in 38 states
J.D. Power customer satisfaction ratingsNot available
How to get an insurance quoteOnline or via an agent
How to submit a claimVia the 24-hour hotline

Pros

  • Flexible payment options
  • Special equipment coverage
  • SR-22 form availability

Cons

  • Not available in every state

What you need to know about Dairyland auto insurance

Headquartered in Wisconsin, Dairyland has offered car and motorcycle insurance for nearly 70 years. Since its first policies in 1953, Dairyland has focused on providing insurance for drivers with poor driving records. Today, Dairyland, owned by parent company Sentry, offers policies for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles and dirt bikes while offering coverage options for people with less-than-perfect credit or driving records.

Flexible payment options

Dairyland’s pay-as-you-go insurance plan allows the option to pay your premium month-to-month, which may be a more affordable option for some customers. If you choose to pay your premium in quarterly installments, every six months or even just once per year, you may be eligible for a discount. You can make payments online or via Dairyland’s mobile app.

Auto coverage offered by Dairyland

Dairyland offers standard auto insurance options and some services geared toward drivers who are determined to be high-risk. Remember, Dairyland car insurance isn’t available in all states, and coverage could vary by location, so it’s best to speak with an agent to find out what your options are.

  • Collision coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist coverage
  • Personal injury protection (PIP)
  • Liability insurance
  • Nonowner car insurance — Protects you if you cause an accident driving a vehicle that isn’t in your name
  • SR-22 filings
  • Towing and labor
  • Rental car reimbursement
  • Lienholder coverage — Sometimes required by banks or credit companies when you’re buying or leasing a vehicle, it covers your loan if there’s an accident in the vehicle before it’s paid off
  • Medical payments
  • Special equipment insurance — This option covers damage to custom parts you have added to your vehicle

Auto insurance discounts offered by Dairyland

Dairyland also offers several ways to save money on your policy. Not all discount options are available in all areas, and Dairyland considers your driving history, habits and the safety features in your car when assessing your discount options.

  • Multicar discount
  • Advanced quote discount — You can potentially save money by getting an insurance quote at least a week before you start your policy
  • Transfer discount
  • Payment frequency discount — Dairyland offers a pay-as-you-go monthly payment plan, but you can save money on your premium by making payments quarterly, every six months or once a year
  • Homeowner’s discount
  • Defensive driving discount
  • Antitheft discount

Common question: Who owns Dairyland Insurance Company?

Sentry Insurance Group acquired Dairyland in 1966.

Common question: Why is Dairyland insurance so expensive?

There are several factors that determine the cost of your insurance premium, including your location, age, driving record, claims history, and the coverages and deductibles you select. Before choosing an insurance company, it’s essential to shop around for car insurance quotes and specific policies that fit your needs.

Common question: What is an SR-22?

An SR-22, also called a certificate of financial responsibility filing, is proof that you carry at least the minimum car insurance required by your state. Not everyone is required to have an SR-22, but if you have a driving violation on your record — like a DUI or driving without insurance — your state may require you to get SR-22 insurance.

Not sure if Dairyland auto insurance is right for you? Consider these alternatives.

  • Geico: Auto insurance from this company could be good for someone with a clean driving record who wants to lower their rate.
  • Progressive: This insurance company is one of the largest personal auto insurers in the U.S. and may be a good fit for safe drivers looking for policies in places Dairyland doesn’t cover.

About the author: Sarah Sidlow is a freelance writer and editor based near Detroit. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Georgetown University. Sarah’s work has appeared in Luxembourg’s national newspaper, Washington City Paper… Read more.