Illinois Car Insurance Minimums
Need information on minimum car insurance in Illinois? You’ve come to the right place. At InsuredASAP, we’ve helped drivers across the Prairie State meet their car insurance requirements for many years. Let’s break down everything you should know about Illinois car insurance minimums.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Illinois Minimum Auto Insurance
- Illinois Car Insurance Minimums: The Breakdown
- Is Minimum Car Insurance in Illinois Enough?
- Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Illinois
- Factors That May Affect Your Premium
- Ways to Lower Your Insurance Costs
- How to Get Affordable Illinois Minimum Auto Insurance
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Stay Legal and Protected on Illinois Roads
Understanding Illinois Minimum Auto Insurance
Illinois law requires all vehicle owners to have minimum auto liability insurance. These minimums are designed to protect other drivers and passengers on the road. Remember, these minimums are not meant to cap how much coverage you can or should get.
Illinois Car Insurance Minimums: The Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the required coverages in Illinois.
Liability Coverage (mandatory for all drivers)
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $20,000 property damage liability per accident
Liability insurance only covers the other car, driver, and passengers when you are found at fault for the accident. It does not cover your costs for personal injuries or property damage.
Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage
- $25,000 per person
- $50,000 per accident
This coverage pays for medical claims that are the fault of an uninsured driver or in the case of a hit-and-run.
Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury Insurance
This type of insurance is required if you purchase higher limits of uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. This applies to personal injuries caused by a driver with inadequate insurance. It takes effect after the other driver’s personal injury coverage has reached its limit.
Why These Minimums Matter
Meeting the Illinois minimum auto insurance requirements isn’t just about following the law – it’s about protecting yourself financially. If you’re in an accident, these minimums help cover:
- Medical expenses for injuries you cause to others
- Repair costs for damage you cause to other vehicles or property
- Your injuries if hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver
Is Minimum Car Insurance in Illinois Enough?
While carrying the minimum car insurance in Illinois allows you to drive legally, it might not provide enough coverage in all situations. For example:
- If you cause a multi-car accident on I-55 or I-57, the damages could easily exceed your policy limits
- If you have a newer or high-value car, minimum coverage won’t pay to repair or replace it if it’s damaged in an accident on Lake Shore Drive
That’s why many Illinois drivers, from Chicago to Carbondale, carry more than the minimum required coverage. Consider your personal needs and financial situation when deciding on coverage limits.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Illinois
Driving without insurance in Illinois can lead to serious consequences, including:
- License plate suspension
- Fines and reinstatement fees
- Difficulty reinstating your license in the future
Factors That May Affect Your Premium
Several factors can influence your car insurance premium in Illinois, including:
- Age, gender, and marital status
- Driving record
- Location
- Type of vehicle
- Use of vehicle and annual mileage
- Credit history
Ways to Lower Your Insurance Costs
Here are some strategies to potentially reduce your car insurance costs:
- Ask about available discounts (e.g., multi-policy, good driver, safety features)
- Choose a higher deductible
- Maintain a good driving record
- Keep a good credit history
- Choose your vehicle carefully
How InsuredASAP Will Help You Secure Affordable Illinois Minimum Auto Insurance
At InsuredASAP, we specialize in helping Illinois drivers find the right coverage at the right price. Here’s how we can help:
- We’ll explain your options beyond the Illinois car insurance minimum
- We compare rates from multiple insurance companies to find you the best deal
- We’ll help you balance cost with coverage to find a policy that fits your needs and budget
Illinois Minimum Insurance FAQ
Do I need to carry proof of insurance in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois law requires you to carry proof of insurance and show it when requested by law enforcement.
How often does Illinois check for auto insurance?
The IL Insurance Verification System (ILIVS) checks vehicle insurance records every six months. If a vehicle is found without insurance, the owner will be notified to contact their insurance provider. If they do not respond, they may lose their driving privileges.
Can I get temporary car insurance in Illinois?
In Illinois, temporary auto insurance usually has a minimum duration of six months. However, you can cancel a policy at any time and receive a prorated refund.
Does Illinois require SR-22 insurance?
Yes, Illinois requires SR-22 for high-risk drivers, such as those convicted of DUI or caught driving without insurance.
Should I only get the minimum required coverage in Illinois?
While the minimum requirements allow you to legally drive, they may not provide enough protection. Consider your personal needs and financial situation when deciding on coverage limits.
Stay Legal and Protected on Illinois Roads
Whether you’re looking for just the minimum car insurance Illinois requires, or you want more comprehensive protection, InsuredASAP is here to help. Call us at 800.641.7488 to speak with an insurance agent or fill out our online form for a fast, free Illinois minimum auto insurance quote.
