Illinois law requires residents to carry liability insurance, including uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage (UMBI), in specific amounts to ensure financial protection in the event of a car accident. The mandated coverage includes $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 bodily injury liability per incident, $20,000 property damage liability per incident, and $50,000 UMBI per incident. These requirements are in place to safeguard both drivers and passengers on the road.
Liability car insurance is essential as it covers the costs of any damage, injuries, or deaths that you may cause in a car accident, up to the limits outlined in your policy. This coverage helps protect you financially and ensures that you can fulfill your legal obligations in the event of an accident. Without liability insurance, you could face significant financial burdens and legal consequences if you are found at fault in a collision.
In addition to liability insurance, Illinois law also mandates uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect drivers from potential losses caused by uninsured or underinsured motorists. Uninsured motorist coverage will cover expenses related to injuries or damage after an accident with a driver who does not have car insurance. On the other hand, underinsured motorist coverage will cover expenses if you are hit by a driver with insufficient insurance to cover all costs from the crash.
Personal injury protection (PIP) is another important aspect of car insurance in Illinois. PIP covers your medical bills and expenses if you are injured in a car crash, regardless of fault. This coverage can also extend to cover lost wages if you are unable to work due to injuries, services you can no longer perform due to your injuries, funeral costs in the event of a fatal accident, and a small death benefit as a cash payout. PIP provides additional financial protection and peace of mind for drivers and passengers involved in car accidents.
While the minimum insurance requirements in Illinois are sufficient to drive legally, it is advisable to consider purchasing additional coverage beyond the mandated limits. For example, if you cause a crash that results in significant damages exceeding your $20,000 property damage liability limit, you would be responsible for covering the remaining balance out of pocket. By opting for higher coverage limits, you can better protect yourself from potential financial hardships in the event of a serious accident.
It is important to note that the Illinois secretary of state randomly selects registered vehicles and requires owners to prove they have insurance through a questionnaire. Failure to fill out the form or reporting that you do not have insurance can result in the suspension of your license plates. Therefore, it is crucial to comply with insurance requirements and maintain adequate coverage to avoid legal penalties and ensure financial security on the road. By understanding and adhering to Illinois car insurance laws, drivers can protect themselves and others while driving on the state’s roadways.