Minimum car insurance in Illinois refers to the minimum level of insurance that you must legally carry. Failing to have enough coverage can lead to high out-of-pocket costs and legal consequences.
What Is the Minimum Car Insurance in Illinois?
Every driver in Illinois must have insurance before driving a vehicle. In addition to having insurance, your insurance policy must meet the following minimum requirements:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $20,000 property damage liability per accident
- $25,000 uninsured motorist coverage per person
- $50,000 uninsured motorist coverage per accident
Liability bodily injury is the state minimum and covers any damages or injuries that you cause to another driver or their passengers. It does not cover any of your costs in an accident. Uninsured coverage is also a requirement as a lot of Illinois drivers don’t carry insurance. If you’re in an accident with another driver who is at fault who doesn’t have insurance, this will cover your medical bills and property damages.
Consequences of Driving Without Insurance in Illinois
Driving without insurance in Illinois is illegal. According to NOLO, it could lead to the following consequences:
- $500 minimum fine
- Suspended license plates for up to four months
- Suspended registration, which can lead to a $1000 legal fine
Drivers are also required to have proof of insurance at all times. Failing to provide proof of insurance can lead to expensive fines. Illinois also has a random selection process. If you receive notification in the mail, you must submit proof of insurance within 30 days. Not providing proof within this timeline can lead to the same consequences as driving without insurance.
Driving without insurance or a license can be expensive. If you continue to drive even with a suspended license, you could receive a class A misdemeanor which means up to one year in prison and a $2500 fine.
It is also helpful to be aware of any other laws in Illinois related to driving. Breaking these laws can lead to fines and an increase in your insurance rates. Illinois prohibits all drivers from texting and driving. Beginner drivers are not allowed to talk on or use their phones while driving. Breaking these laws can lead to a $75 fine.
Additional Insurance Coverages to Consider in Illinois
Liability insurance only covers damages that you cause to someone else. It does not cover your own costs related to an accident. It may be useful to consider additional types of insurance, including:
- Personal injury protection (PIP): PIP covers your medical bills and damages following an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
- MedPay: MedPay can help to cover your medical bills if they are not covered with a different insurance policy.
- Collision coverage: Collision coverage pays for your vehicle’s damages, regardless of who is at fault.
- Comprehensive coverage: Comprehensive coverage pays for your damages that aren’t related to an accident, including theft or vandalism.
- Gap coverage: Gap coverage pays for the difference between an insurance payout following an accident and the value of your vehicle.
- Roadside assistance: Roadside assistance can cover costs related to towing or any other services you need roadside.
If you drive a vehicle that is worth a lot, or you have an auto loan, it may be worthwhile to consider full coverage. Additionally, many lenders or leaseholders require borrowers to buy full coverage to protect their investment. No one ever expects to be in a car accident. However, if you are, you want to ensure that you have enough insurance coverage to pay for everyone’s damages. According to the Zebra, it is always a good idea to consider increasing your minimum coverage to ensure you are protected.
Factors That Go Into Calculating Insurance Rates in Illinois
It can be helpful to know what factors go into calculating your insurance rates in Illinois. Insurance providers will consider the following:
- The year and value of your vehicle
- If you have had long-term coverage
- The number of miles you drive each day
- Your driving record
- Your age
- Your gender
- Your marital status
- Your location
- Your driving experience
- Your credit rating
- If you drive primarily for personal or business purposes
Even city locations in Illinois can make a difference in rates. Larger cities, like Chicago, are likely to cost more than smaller cities with fewer residents. Additionally, your age can make a difference, especially if you’re a younger driver. Teen drivers have the highest insurance rates but will notice a decrease in their 20s and even more in their 30s.
How to Get the Best Insurance Rates in Illinois
Whether you choose to maintain the minimum level of coverage in Illinois, or you want a full coverage policy, there are a few things that you can do to get the best rates. Save on your Illinois insurance rates with the following tips:
- Inquire about available discounts: Always find out if you qualify for any available discounts. A few available discounts might include safe driver, safety equipment, multi-vehicle, or multi-policy.
- Compare quotes among providers: Insurance providers consider the same factors, like age and driving history, but calculate them differently. This is why it is so important to compare rates.
- Evaluate your coverage needs: Regularly evaluate your coverage needs and adjust as necessary. If you drive an older vehicle that is worth less, you may not need full coverage.
- Drive safely: Your driving record is a big contributor to your insurance rates. Avoid speeding or any other traffic violations to avoid a price increase.
Shopping around and comparing quotes between providers is one of the best ways to find the cheapest insurance rates in Illinois. Even when you have picked a provider, you don’t have to stay with them forever. If they increase your rates, or if your insurance needs change, then you may price shop again to find more affordable rates.
Minimum car insurance in Illinois is a guideline for the level of coverage you are required to have. Most drivers will need additional coverage, depending on their location and vehicle’s value.
Check this out if you need additional information, resources, or guidance on car insurance.
Sources:
Illinois Car Insurance Requirements | nolo.com
Illinois Car Insurance Laws | thezebra.com
Car Insurance Companies in Chicago, Illinois: Everything You Need to Know | caranddriver.com
Cheapest Car Insurance in Chicago, Illinois | caranddriver.com
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