Do I Need Auto Insurance?
Yes! Illinois drivers are required to carry minimal liability auto insurance. However, the state minimum is to protect other drivers in accidents in which you are at fault and offer inadequate protection for yourself or your vehicle.
Are all Auto Policies the Same?
No. Each auto policy is designed to meet the specific needs of the individual purchasing the policy.
What Types of Auto Coverage are Available?
There are six coverage types the average auto insurance policy in Illinois is likely to include:
- Bodily Injury Liability – covers injuries you cause to others while driving
- Comprehensive – reimburses you for loss or damage to your car that’s unrelated to an accident or collision
- Collision – offers coverage for damages related to collisions with other cars, objects, or from rollovers – this coverage also extends to damage caused by potholes
- Medical Payments/Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – covers injuries to drivers and passengers of the covered car
- Property Damage Liability – covers the damage your vehicle causes to the property of others including fences, buildings, etc.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – reimburses you or a family member if you are hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or one who leaves the scene of the accident – underinsured coverage kicks in when the driver who is at fault doesn’t have sufficient coverage to pay for your loss.
Is Car Rental Covered in all Auto Insurance Policies?
Car rental is not standard coverage though it is widely available as additional coverage for a nominal fee.
Will Premiums Rise after Filing the First Claim?
Premium calculations are complex though most people do experience a slight increase after accidents, according to the dollar amount of the claim made against your policy. This practice varies greatly from one company to the next.