Illinois car insurance requirements
Every driver in Illinois must carry at least this coverage. It’s an at-fault state: the driver who causes a crash is responsible for the damage.
| Coverage | Minimum required |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability | $20,000 per accident |
| Uninsured motorist bodily injury | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
State minimums protect other people, not you or your car. Most drivers choose higher limits, plus collision and comprehensive if their car is financed or worth repairing.
What Illinois drivers should know
- Illinois is an at-fault state, and uninsured motorist coverage is required on every policy.
- Rates vary widely between Chicago and the rest of the state — where you garage your car is one of the biggest price factors.
- Driving without insurance can lead to fines and suspension of your license plates.
Home insurance in Illinois
- Severe thunderstorms, hail and tornadoes cause many Illinois home claims, along with winter freeze damage.
- Sewer and drain backup is common in heavy rain but usually needs an add-on endorsement — it isn’t automatically covered.
- The Illinois FAIR Plan offers basic coverage for properties that can’t get insurance elsewhere.
Ways to save in Illinois
- Compare several companies. Prices for the same driver and home can vary widely between insurers — comparing is the fastest way to find a better rate.
- Bundle auto and home. Many insurers discount both policies when you buy them together.
- Raise your deductibles if you could comfortably pay more out of pocket after a claim.
- Ask about discounts for safe driving, paying in full, home security devices and newer roofs.