Protecting your car from damage is just a natural step in the car owning process. For Chicago drivers, knowing your city’s specific risks can help you determine what you need on your policy. Here are some risks that Chicago drivers face: 

• Heavy Urban Traffic: Congestion in areas like the Kennedy (I-90/94) and stop-and-go driving increases the risk of fender benders and other serious accidents.
• Neighborhood Risks: Areas like Lincoln Park and Lakeview may have structured parking, but dense lots with lots of cars increase accidents. The South and West Side areas face higher theft and vandalism rates.
• Extreme Weather: Chicago can face heavy snowstorms and icy roads in the winter and sudden downpours in the summer, putting cars at risk of non-collision damage.
• Uninsured Driver Risks: Big cities may have higher rates of uninsured drivers than more suburban areas.

Auto insurance for Chicago has legal requirements set by the state of Illinois. Drivers must carry at least liability coverage on their policies. This includes: 

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $20,000 for property damage per accident
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage

These legal minimums are a good starting point, but it’s often recommended that drivers increase these limits in the event of more severe or expensive accidents. This is especially helpful if you’re ever the at-fault driver. 

To understand the state’s requirements and the definitions of these coverages in further detail, visit our Illinois car insurance page. 

Policies that only meet liability don’t offer coverage for the at-fault driver. Because of this, additional coverage is highly recommended.  

Here are some commonly recommended options to consider adding to your policy: 

• Collision Coverage: Helps pay for damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident. Subject to your deductible selection.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Helps pay for non-collision damages (e.g. weather or theft) to your vehicle caused by a covered accident. Subject to your deductible selection.
• Roadside Assistance: Helps pay for the cost of towing your vehicle if it cannot be driven due to an accident or a breakdown on a busy expressway or remote parking lots in the city.
• Rental Car Reimbursement: Helps pay for the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered accident.
• Medical Payments (MedPay): Offers assistance for medical expenses caused by a covered accident, regardless of fault.

This isn’t a full list of coverage options available, and these definitions are general in nature to give you an understanding of what they offer. 

At Goosehead, we work with you to learn your situation so we can find you coverage that makes sense for your needs. 

On average, Chicago drivers pay around $1,200 a year for liability only coverage. Drivers that opt for more coverage pay around $3,600 a year.  

Ultimately, what you pay depends on what you put on your policy and some additional factors, such as: 

• Driving Record: Accident-free or safe drivers see lower premiums over those with violations or those who make frequent claims.
• Location: Various neighborhoods/ZIP codes in Chicago, such as Grand Crossing and West Englewood, see higher rates of auto-related theft or are at risk of other weather-related events.
• Parking: Having a garage or private car park protects your car more than street parking, qualifying you for lower rates.
• Vehicle Type: Newer, high-value, or customized vehicles see higher rates due to either increased costs to repair, or because of a higher chance of theft.
• Age: Drivers who are young and inexperienced face higher premiums.

High quality coverage doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some common tips many utilize to save on auto insurance: 

• Bundled Policies: Combining your auto insurance with other policies (home, renters, etc.) provides a multi-policy discount.
• Safe Driver Discounts: Those with no violations on their driving record see lower premiums.
• Install Safety Devices: Anti-theft installations or dash cams also qualify you for discounts.
• Ask About Potential Garage Parking Discounts: If possible, if you’re able to avoid street parking at your Chicago residence, ask carriers if they offer discounts for safe parking.
• Shop Around: Goosehead's expansive carrier network allows us to find you better rates before your policy renews.

Our Goosehead Insurance agents work with you to create a policy that fits your needs and saves you time. Here’s why Chicago drivers trust us: 

• Access to Top Carriers: Goosehead partners with many carriers across the nation to find our clients the best offerings.
• Custom Coverage: We work with you, learn your needs, and create policies that are the best fit for your life.
• Exceptional Support: Our agents are here to answer questions, break down industry terms, and offer top-notch service to our clients.
• Local Expertise: Our Chicago agents are experts for the city, so they help you meet legal requirements and keep you aware of the risks Chicago drivers face.