SD SB227

Insurers cannot declare a motor vehicle a total loss unless repair costs meet or exceed 75% of the vehicle's actual cash value before damage occurred

Vehicle owners may still request in writing that their insurer declare a total loss even when repair costs are below the 75% threshold

Applies to damage from collision, fire, vandalism, weather, or other perils

"Actual cash value" is defined as current market value within 200 miles of the owner's primary address, considering year/make/model, accessories, deterioration, odometer reading, and accident history