DAIRYLAND INSURANCE
What Is Dairyland Insurance?
Dairyland Insurance is a specialty insurance company founded in 1953 and headquartered in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. It operates as a subsidiary of Sentry Insurance, one of the largest mutual insurance groups in the United States. For more than seven decades, Dairyland has focused on a market segment that most mainstream carriers avoid: drivers and riders who are considered high-risk due to poor driving records, lapsed coverage, DUI convictions, or the need for an SR-22 filing.
Unlike companies such as GEICO or State Farm that primarily serve preferred-risk customers, Dairyland’s entire business model is built around giving overlooked drivers a second chance. That singular focus translates into genuine expertise in non-standard auto policies, motorcycle insurance, and the regulatory nuances of SR-22 and FR-44 certificates across dozens of states.
Company Fast Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1953 |
| Parent Company | Sentry Insurance Group |
| Headquarters | Stevens Point, Wisconsin |
| Coverage States | Available in most U.S. states |
| Specialty | Non-standard / High-Risk Auto & Motorcycle |
| AM Best Rating | A+ (Superior) |
| Customer Service | 1-800-334-0090 |
| Website | Dairyland Insurance |
Types of Coverage Offered
Dairyland offers two primary product lines. Every policy is written to meet or exceed each state’s minimum requirements while offering optional upgrades that provide comprehensive financial protection.
Auto Insurance Products
- Liability Coverage (Bodily Injury & Property Damage)
- Collision Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
- Medical Payments (MedPay) & Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- SR-22 Filing & FR-44 Certificates
- Non-Owner Auto Insurance
- Named Non-Owner SR-22
Motorcycle Insurance Products
- Liability Coverage for Motorcycles
- Collision & Comprehensive for Bikes
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage
- Guest Passenger Liability
- Custom Parts & Equipment Coverage
- Trip Interruption Coverage
- Roadside Assistance for Motorcycles
- Scooter & Moped Insurance
For a side-by-side look at how these coverages compare to industry standards, the Insurance Information Institute’s coverage guide is an excellent reference. You can also use the NAIC Consumer Insurance Search to verify Dairyland’s licensing in your specific state.
Dairyland Insurance — Deep Dive
Dairyland insurance is purpose-built for situations where standard carriers issue declinations or unaffordable quotes. Here is what makes their auto product stand out.
Liability Coverage
Every Dairyland auto policy starts with state-minimum liability, which covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Dairyland allows you to increase these limits well beyond minimums — a smart move, because the Insurance Research Council consistently finds that minimum limits leave drivers dangerously underinsured after serious collisions.
Comprehensive & Collision
If you carry a loan or lease on your vehicle, lenders require full coverage. Dairyland offers both comprehensive (theft, weather, fire, vandalism) and collision protection with flexible deductible options ranging from $250 to $2,000. Choosing a higher deductible lowers your premium, which matters when budget is a concern for high-risk drivers.
Uninsured Motorist Protection
According to the Insurance Research Council’s Uninsured Motorists report, roughly 1 in 7 U.S. drivers is uninsured. Dairyland Insurance UM/UIM coverage steps in to pay your medical bills and vehicle repairs when an at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient limits — a critical layer of protection that many high-risk policy-seekers skip to save money but should not.
Non-Owner DAIRYLAND INSURANCE
If you do not own a vehicle but need to drive occasionally — or need an SR-22 to reinstate your license — Dairyland Insurance non-owner policy is one of the most straightforward solutions in the market. It provides liability coverage whenever you drive a borrowed or rented car, satisfying most state reinstatement requirements without forcing you to insure a vehicle you do not own.
Dairyland Motorcycle Insurance — Deep Dive
Dairyland is one of the most respected names in motorcycle Dairyland Insurance, with decades of experience insuring bikes that other carriers decline — from older cruisers and high-displacement sport bikes to custom choppers and vintage machines.
Who Qualifies?
Dairyland insures riders with speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, DUI convictions, or no prior motorcycle Dairyland Insurance history. They also cover bikes up to high engine displacements that trigger surcharges at standard carriers. Accepted bike types include:
- Cruisers & Touring Bikes (Harley-Davidson, Indian)
- Sport Bikes & Supersports
- Dual-Sport & Adventure Motorcycles
- Scooters (50cc–500cc)
- Mopeds
- Custom & Chopper Motorcycles
- Vintage & Classic Bikes
- Best Travel Insurance
Custom Parts & Equipment (CPE) Coverage
Many riders invest thousands of dollars in aftermarket exhausts, custom paint, upgraded seats, and performance parts. Dairyland Insurance CPE endorsement covers these additions up to a selected limit, protecting your investment beyond the stock value of the bike. For a complete overview of what motorcycle insurance should cover, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers excellent free resources for new and experienced riders alike.
Trip Interruption & Roadside Assistance
If your bike breaks down more than 100 miles from home, Dairyland Insurance optional trip interruption coverage reimburses you for hotel stays, meals, and rental costs while repairs are made. Their roadside assistance add-on covers towing, fuel delivery, flat tire changes, and battery jump-starts — essential peace of mind for long-distance touring riders.
SR-22 Insurance & High-Risk Drivers
This is where Dairyland truly differentiates itself. SR-22 is not insurance — it is a certificate your insurer files with your state’s DMV to prove you carry the legally required minimum coverage. Courts and DMVs mandate SR-22 filing after:
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Too many points on your license
- Reckless driving conviction
- License suspension or revocation
- At-fault accident without insurance
Dairyland files SR-22 certificates in most states, often same-day. This is critically important because your license reinstatement timeline depends on the certificate reaching the DMV quickly. You can learn more about SR-22 requirements in your state through the DMV.org SR-22 Guide or your state’s official DMV website.
FR-44 Certificates (Florida & Virginia)
Florida and Virginia require FR-44 certificates for DUI offenders — similar to SR-22 but with higher liability limits. Dairyland handles FR-44 filings in both states, making them one of the few carriers with end-to-end high-risk compliance expertise across all U.S. jurisdictions.
| ⚠️ SR-22 Important Facts |
| ✔ You typically need SR-22 coverage for 3 consecutive years |
| ✔ A policy lapse restarts your SR-22 clock — avoid cancellations |
| ✔ Non-owner SR-22 is available if you don’t own a vehicle |
| ✔ Dairyland files electronically with most state DMVs |
| ✔ Your premium will be higher with SR-22 but can decrease over time |
How Much Does Dairyland Insurance Cost?
Dairyland’s rates are higher than standard-market averages because they accept more risk. However, for drivers who cannot qualify elsewhere, Dairyland Insurance often provides the most competitive option in the non-standard segment. Below are the key factors that determine your premium.
Auto Dairyland Insurance Rate Factors
| Rate Factor | Impact on Premium | Your Control |
|---|---|---|
| Driving Record (DUI, tickets) | Very High (+40–100%) | Limited — improves over time |
| Years Licensed / Experience | High | Improves with time |
| Vehicle Age & Value | Moderate | Choose older/cheaper vehicle |
| Deductible Level | Moderate | Fully in your control |
| Coverage Limits Selected | Moderate–High | Fully in your control |
| State of Residence | Varies by state law | No control |
| Continuous Coverage History | High (discount if maintained) | In your control |
| Payment Plan (monthly vs. paid-in-full) | Low–Moderate | Fully in your control |
Average Cost Benchmarks
High-risk auto insurance premiums vary widely. According to Bankrate’s insurance research, non-standard drivers with a DUI on record pay an average of $3,000–$5,500 per year nationally. Dairyland’s rates fall within this range and are frequently lower than competitors like Bristol West or Gainsco for comparable profiles.
Ways to Lower Your Dairyland Insurance Premium
- Pay your policy in full (avoid installment fees)
- Choose a higher deductible if you can afford it
- Maintain continuous coverage without any lapse
- Take a state-approved defensive driving course
- Bundle auto and motorcycle policies if applicable
- Let violations age off your record (typically 3–5 years)
- Shop for a quote at every renewal period
Dairyland vs. Competitors
Understanding where Dairyland stands in the non-standard insurance market helps you make a truly informed decision. Here is how they compare to the most common alternatives.
| Feature | Dairyland | Progressive | Bristol West | GAINSCO | The General |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SR-22 Filing | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| Motorcycle Insurance | ✔ Specialty Focus | ✔ Yes | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Non-Owner SR-22 | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Limited | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| Same-Day Coverage | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| AM Best Rating | A+ (Superior) | A+ (Superior) | Not Rated | A- (Excellent) | A- (Excellent) |
| Online Quote & Bind | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Limited | ✔ Yes |
| Mobile App | Basic | Full-Featured | Basic | Basic | Basic |
| Custom Bike Coverage | ✔ Excellent | ✔ Good | ✗ N/A | ✗ N/A | ✗ N/A |
For drivers who also need a standard personal auto policy, comparing quotes from Progressive and Nationwide alongside Dairyland is always recommended, as preferences and availability shift by state. Use a resource like The Zebra’s comparison tool or NerdWallet Insurance to pull multiple quotes simultaneously.
How to Get a Dairyland Quote
Obtaining a quote is simple and can be done in three ways
Option A: Online Quote
Visit dairylandinsurance.com/get-a-quote and complete the digital form. You will need your driver’s license number, vehicle VIN, current or prior insurance information, and details about any accidents or violations. Most users receive a bindable quote within 5–10 minutes.
Option B: Independent Agent
Dairyland works with a national network of independent insurance agents. These agents can compare Dairyland’s pricing against other non-standard carriers they represent, ensuring you get the best available rate. The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA) directory can help you locate a licensed agent in your area.
Option C: Phone
Call 1-800-334-0090 to speak with a Dairyland representative directly. Phone service is available Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Agents can bind coverage immediately over the phone and initiate SR-22 filings on the spot.
What You’ll Need for Your Quote
- ⦁ Full legal name, date of birth, and address
- ⦁ Driver’s license number (all drivers on policy)
- ⦁ Vehicle VIN, year, make, model, and trim
- ⦁ Odometer reading (annual mileage estimate)
- ⦁ Prior insurance company and policy number
- ⦁ Accident/violation history for past 5 years
- ⦁ SR-22 requirement details (if applicable)
Filing a Claim With Dairyland
When an accident happens, knowing the exact steps to file a claim reduces stress and helps ensure a faster resolution.
Step-by-Step Claims Process
- Step 1 — Secure the Scene
Call 911 if anyone is injured. Move vehicles out of traffic if safe to do so. Exchange insurance information with all other drivers involved. - Step 2 — Document Everything
Photograph vehicle damage, license plates, the road scene, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Note the time, weather conditions, and names of any witnesses. - Step 3 — Report Your Claim
Call Dairyland’s 24/7 claims line or log in to your online account at dairylandinsurance.com to file digitally. Have your policy number, photos, and police report number ready. - Step 4 — Claims Adjuster Review
Dairyland will assign an adjuster who will contact you within 1–2 business days to schedule a vehicle inspection or arrange a virtual assessment. - Step 5 — Vehicle Repair or Total Loss
If repairable, Dairyland will issue payment directly to an approved shop or reimburse you after repair. Total loss settlements are based on the actual cash value of your vehicle. - Step 6 — Medical & Liability Settlement
Bodily injury claims take longer to resolve. Dairyland’s liability team negotiates settlements with injured parties or their attorneys after treatment is complete.
For guidance on your rights during the claims process, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) publishes a free consumer guide explaining what insurers are required to do and within what timeframes in every state.
Dairyland Insurance Reviews & Ratings
Financial Strength
Dairyland carries an A+ (Superior) rating from AM Best through its parent, Sentry Insurance. This is the highest possible rating and signals that Dairyland has the financial reserves to pay claims even in catastrophic loss years. You can verify this on the AM Best official ratings portal.
Customer Satisfaction
| Rating Source | Score / Grade | Context |
|---|---|---|
| AM Best Financial Strength | A+ (Superior) | Highest possible rating |
| Better Business Bureau (BBB) | A+ Accredited | Based on complaint handling |
| NAIC Complaint Index | Below industry average | Fewer complaints than expected |
| Google Reviews (aggregate) | 3.5 / 5.0 | Mixed — pricing & claims cited |
| Trustpilot | 3.2 / 5.0 | Similar mixed pattern |
Customer reviews are mixed — typical for any non-standard carrier. The majority of negative reviews cite premium increases at renewal, which reflects actuarial adjustments rather than bad faith. Positive reviews consistently praise SR-22 speed, ease of binding coverage, and agent helpfulness. For independent consumer research, J.D. Power’s Auto Insurance Study and the NAIC’s Consumer Information Source are the most authoritative resources available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict: Is Dairyland Worth It?
| ✅ Dairyland Is an Excellent Choice If You… |
|---|
| ✔ Have a DUI, DWI, or serious traffic violations on your record |
| ✔ Need an SR-22 or FR-44 certificate filed quickly |
| ✔ Were declined or quoted unaffordably by standard carriers |
| ✔ Need motorcycle insurance with a high-risk driving history |
| ✔ Want coverage for a custom bike or high-displacement sport bike |
| ✔ Need non-owner insurance to reinstate a suspended license |
| ⚠️ Consider Alternatives If You… |
|---|
| ✔ Have a clean driving record and full credit access (standard carriers will be cheaper) |
| ✔ Need a robust mobile app or digital-first claims experience |
| ✔ Want bundling discounts for home + auto (Dairyland doesn’t offer home insurance) |
| ✔ Prioritize extensive local agent networks with face-to-face service |
Dairyland fills a genuine and important gap in the insurance market. For drivers and riders who need coverage now — particularly those with violations that make standard carriers unavailable — Dairyland’s speed, accessibility, and SR-22 expertise are genuinely valuable. Their A+ financial strength rating means your claims will be paid. Their premiums are higher than the standard market, but that reflects the risk they accept, not arbitrary pricing.
Our recommendation: get a Dairyland quote and simultaneously request quotes from Progressive, Acceptance Insurance, and at least one local independent agent via the IIABA Agent Finder. Compare apples-to-apples on coverage limits — not just premium — and choose the policy that provides the best protection for your specific situation.
