Car insurance is mandatory in Illinois, and for good reason. It protects not only your finances but also your safety and well-being on the road. Driving conditions in the state can vary dramatically, making comprehensive and tailored car insurance essential.  

• Severe Weather Conditions: Illinois experiences all four seasons, meaning drivers face snow, ice, heavy rain, and even the occasional tornado. These conditions can increase the risk of weather-related accidents. 
• Heavy Traffic in Urban Areas: Major cities like Chicago are notorious for their congestion, creating heightened risks for accidents. 
• Theft and Vandalism in Metro Areas: Cities like Chicago are known for higher rates of car theft and vandalism compared to suburban or rural regions.  
• Rural and High-Speed Roads: Areas outside the city often feature highways and rural roads where collisions at higher speeds can lead to significant damage. 

Illinois is an “at fault” state, meaning the driver responsible for an accident must cover damages to others. At a minimum, Illinois law requires drivers to carry the following coverage types and limits:  

• Bodily Injury Liability: Coverage for others’ medical costs when you’re at fault. Minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. 
• Property Damage Liability: Coverage for others’ vehicles or property when you’re at fault. Minimum requirement of $20,000 per accident. 
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: Split into bodily injury and property damage. Coverage for both your vehicle and injuries if the other party doesn't have sufficient insurance. Limits are typically the same as your liability. However, UM/UIM limits cannot be more than your set liability. 
  • Included in standard policies. Drivers have the choice to reject or adjust limits to it but must do so in writing. 

Meeting the minimum legal requirement for coverage only covers the other party if you’re found at fault. This means your own vehicle won’t be covered. Goosehead Insurance recommends exploring additional coverage options for peace of mind.  

Accidents can be costly, and if you’re found at fault, you’re responsible for repairing your own car. Consider these additional coverage options to protect yourself and your vehicle:  

• Collision Coverage: Helps pay for damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident based on your deductible. 
• Comprehensive Coverage: Helps pay for non-collision damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident based on your deductible. 
• Roadside Assistance: Helps pay for the cost of towing your vehicle if it cannot be driven due to an accident or breakdown. 
• Rental Car Reimbursement: Helps pay for the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered accident. 
• Increase Liability Limits: Some drivers see the benefit of increasing their liability limits to avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses if they’re found to be at fault. 

Our agents can also help design a policy specific to your needs, whether you drive frequently, own a high-value or modified vehicle, or have unique coverage requirements.  

In addition to your coverage selections, the average cost of car insurance in Illinois can vary greatly depending on the following:  

• Driving Record: Safe drivers with no accidents or infractions are rewarded with lower premiums, while tickets and accidents increase rates. 
• Vehicle Type: Luxury and high-performance vehicles are more expensive to insure due to repair and replacement costs. 
• Location: Urban drivers in Chicago typically pay higher premiums compared to those in rural areas, as city driving carries greater risks. 
• Annual Mileage: The more you drive, the higher your chances of an accident, which can drive up your rates. 
• Age and Driving Experience: Younger and less experienced drivers often face higher premiums, while middle-aged drivers generally enjoy lower rates. 

Illinois drivers pay an average of $700 annually for state-minimum coverage. If drivers have a policy with more coverage, they pay an average of about $2,400 annually. 

At Goosehead Insurance, we’re committed to helping you find the best coverage at the most affordable rate. Here are some strategies to lower your car insurance in Illinois.  

• Bundle Policies: Combine your car insurance with home or renters insurance for multi-policy discounts. 
• Keep a Clean Record: Avoid tickets and accidents to qualify for good driver discounts. 
• Utilize Safe Driving Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for installing anti-theft devices or enrolling in defensive driving courses. 
• Ask About Loyalty and Multi-Car Discounts: If you have multiple vehicles or intend on staying with the same provider over time can often result in savings. 

At Goosehead Insurance, we aim to simplify the process of finding the right policy for Illinois residents. Here’s why drivers in the Prairie State trust us with their car insurance needs.  

• Access to Top Providers: We compare policies from a wide array of highly rated insurance companies to find your best options. 
• Custom Coverage Options: Our agents tailor insurance policies to suit the unique risks Illinois drivers encounter. 
• Outstanding Service: We provide ongoing support, from selecting coverage to filing claims and making policy adjustments. 
• Trusted Expertise: With a deep understanding of Illinois-specific driving challenges, we ensure you’re informed and confident in your decisions.