Honestly, I’m with you on the “better safe than sorry” thing. I’ve had my phone randomly freeze or just decide it’s time for a nap at the worst possible moments—usually when I need to show something important. I know digital stuff is supposed to make life easier, but tech seems to have a sense of humor sometimes.
I keep a paper copy in my glove box, just in case. It’s not like it takes up any space, and I don’t have to worry about whether my phone’s charged or if the screenshot saved right. Maybe it’s overkill, but I’d rather look a little old-fashioned than be stuck explaining to an officer why I can’t prove I’m insured because my battery died.
One time, my friend tried to pull up his insurance on his phone during a traffic stop, and of course, he had no signal out in the middle of nowhere. The cop was cool about it, but it could’ve gone the other way. Stuff like that sticks with you.
I get why people go digital-only—it’s convenient and all—but for me, having that backup just cuts down on stress. If nothing else, it’s one less thing to worry about when Murphy’s Law decides to show up again... which feels like every other week for me lately.
That’s a good point about tech acting up at the worst times. I’m curious—has anyone actually had an officer in South Dakota insist on seeing a paper copy, or is digital always accepted now? I drive a ‘72 Chevelle and still keep everything old school, just in case.
I totally get the old school approach—my dad’s got a ’68 Charger and he won’t leave the driveway without the classic paper folder in the glovebox. I’ve been through South Dakota a few times in the last couple years, and every time I’ve been pulled over (speeding, whoops), digital proof on my phone was just fine. The officers barely looked twice. That said, once my phone glitched and I couldn’t pull up the app right away—felt awkward fumbling around while the trooper waited. He was patient but I could tell he’d have preferred if I just handed him the paper.
Guess it depends on the officer’s mood or maybe how rural you are. Tech is great until it isn’t… so I still keep a printed copy tucked away, just for peace of mind. Can’t really go wrong with backup, right?
- Had a similar situation last winter—phone died right as I got pulled over outside Rapid City.
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100% agree.“Tech is great until it isn’t…”
- Paper backup saved me from a headache.
- Wonder if some officers just prefer the old way, especially in smaller towns?
- Still feels weird carrying both, but I guess it’s better than getting stuck.
- Been there with the tech fail. Had my insurance app freeze up in the middle of nowhere, and the officer just kind of sighed and waited while I tried to reboot. Felt awkward, honestly.
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“Wonder if some officers just prefer the old way, especially in smaller towns?”
I’d bet on it. Out in the sticks, I’ve had a couple officers look at my phone like it was a magic trick. One even said he “trusted paper more.” Not sure if that’s just habit or if they’ve had issues with fake digital cards or whatever.
- Carrying both is a pain, but I guess it’s like having a spare tire—annoying until you need it.
- Here’s what I’m not clear on: is it actually legal to show just digital proof in SD, or does it depend on the cop? I’ve read the law says it’s fine, but in practice, seems like it’s hit or miss.
- Anyone ever had an officer flat-out refuse the digital version? Or is it more just a vibe thing—like, if you’re polite and your info checks out, they let it slide?
- Side note: my buddy got pulled over near Pierre and the trooper said he “preferred paper” but didn’t make a fuss. Makes me wonder if there’s any official guidance for them or if it’s just up to whoever pulls you over.
- Not sure if I’m just paranoid, but I keep both now. Feels old-school, but better than arguing on the side of the road in the cold.
