I've had similar experiences, and honestly, digital proof acceptance can vary quite a bit depending on where you are and even the officer you get. A few quick points from my own experience:
- Digital insurance cards are technically accepted in most states now, including South Dakota. But like you found out, relying solely on your phone can be risky if you're somewhere remote or your battery dies.
- I've heard from friends who've had officers refuse digital copies because they weren't familiar with the rules or just preferred paper. It's rare, but it happens.
- Personally, I always keep a printed copy in my glovebox—laminated too! (You're not alone there.) It just feels safer to have something physical to hand over without worrying about tech issues.
- If you're traveling out of state, definitely carry a printed backup. Some states or rural areas might not be as up-to-date or comfortable with digital proof yet.
Funny story: I once got pulled over in my '68 Mustang (nothing serious, thankfully), and when I handed the officer my laminated insurance card, he actually complimented me on being "prepared." We ended up chatting about classic cars for a good five minutes... probably helped me avoid a ticket that day.
Bottom line: Digital is convenient and usually fine, but having a physical backup is smart—especially if you're driving through rural areas or unfamiliar territory.
Same here—I learned the hard way when my phone decided to die right as the officer walked up to my window. Talk about awkward timing... Now I keep a printed copy tucked away just in case. Lesson definitely learned.
Yikes, that's exactly the kind of scenario I'm paranoid about. Just bought my first insurance policy and immediately printed out like three copies—one for the glovebox, one in my wallet, and one at home. Overkill maybe, but better safe than sorry, right?
"Overkill maybe, but better safe than sorry, right?"
Haha, honestly, three copies might be pushing it a bit. Most insurers have apps now anyway, so you can just flash your phone if needed. But hey, whatever helps you sleep at night...
Haha, I get the caution though. I've seen plenty of cases where someone's phone battery died or they had no signal just when they needed proof of insurance. Happened to me once on a road trip through Wyoming—middle of nowhere, zero bars, and the officer wasn't exactly thrilled waiting for my phone to load. Ever since then, I keep at least one printed copy tucked away in the glove box...just in case. Better safe than sorry indeed.
