Auto insurance helps protects you from financial losses such as vehicle repairs, medical bills, and legal services that could result from an auto accident. Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/7-601) requires all vehicle owners to have minimum amounts of auto liability insurance.
This guide is based on recommendations from the Illinois Department of Insurance Auto Insurance Shopping Guide and is intended to help Illinois drivers better understand their coverage options and make informed decisions when purchasing auto insurance.
Who Needs Auto Insurance in Illinois?
According to the Illinois Department of Insurance, all vehicle owners in Illinois are required to carry liability insurance. If your vehicle is financed or leased, your lender may also require additional protection such as collision and comprehensive coverage.
At Accurate Auto Insurance, we help drivers meet these requirements while finding affordable coverage options that fit their needs.
Required Auto Insurance Coverage in Illinois
The Illinois Department of Insurance outlines the following minimum required liability coverage:
- Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage: $20,000 per accident
Liability coverage pays for injuries or damages you cause to others. However, the Illinois Department of Insurance recommends considering higher limits, as state minimums may not fully protect you in serious accidents.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage is also required and provides protection if you are injured by a driver who does not carry insurance.
Additional Coverage Options to Consider
The Illinois Department of Insurance also highlights optional coverages that can provide additional protection:
- Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your vehicle from an accident
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision events such as theft, fire, or weather damage
- Medical Payments: Helps cover medical expenses regardless of fault
- Gap Insurance: Covers the difference between your loan balance and vehicle value
- Rental Reimbursement & Towing: Helps with transportation and roadside expenses
These coverages are not required by law but may be recommended depending on your vehicle and financial situation.
How to Shop for Auto Insurance
Based on guidance from the Illinois Department of Insurance, consumers should:
- Verify that the insurance company is licensed in Illinois
- Review complaint ratios and company financial stability
- Work with a licensed and reliable insurance agent
- Compare multiple quotes before making a decision
- Avoid high-pressure sales tactics
Accurate Auto Insurance simplifies this process by helping you compare options and find the best value based on your situation.
What Affects Your Auto Insurance Rate?
According to Illinois Department of Insurance guidance, several factors can impact your premium:
- Driving record, including tickets and accidents
- Age and driving experience
- Location and population density
- Type of vehicle
- Annual mileage and vehicle use
- Credit history (in many cases)
Understanding these factors can help you make better decisions when selecting coverage.
Ways to Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs
The Illinois Department of Insurance recommends the following ways to reduce your premium:
- Ask about available discounts
- Choose a higher deductible if affordable
- Bundle multiple policies with one provider
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Select a vehicle with lower insurance costs
Even drivers with past violations may still qualify for affordable coverage options.
What If You Cannot Find Auto Insurance?
If you are unable to obtain coverage through standard insurance companies, the Illinois Department of Insurance provides access to the Illinois Auto Insurance Plan. This program helps eligible drivers secure the required coverage when other options are not available.
Get Affordable Auto Insurance Today
Accurate Auto Insurance has been helping drivers find cheap auto insurance rates in Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Texas, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
Whether you need minimum liability coverage or a full coverage policy, our team helps you compare options and save money.
Get your free quote today and start saving on auto insurance.
Final Thoughts
The Illinois Department of Insurance provides valuable guidance to help consumers make informed decisions when shopping for coverage. Use these recommendations as a foundation—but don’t stop there.
At Accurate Auto Insurance, we take it a step further by helping you compare real options, find the lowest possible rates, and get coverage that actually fits your situation.
Get a fast, free quote from Accurate Auto Insurance—proudly serving Illinois drivers since 1992.
