Cheap Car Insurance in IL: How to Get the Best Deals

As a driver in Illinois, having car insurance is not only mandatory, but it’s also a smart investment. Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere, and having insurance can cover you from financial liabilities. But for many people, finding cheap car insurance IL can be a daunting task, especially if they don’t know where to start. In this article, we will discuss how to get the best deals on car insurance in Illinois.

Understanding Car Insurance Requirements in Illinois

Before looking for car insurance in Illinois, it’s important to understand the state’s requirements. According to the Illinois Department of Insurance, all drivers must have liability insurance that covers at least:

Coverage Type
Minimum Coverage Limit
Bodily Injury Liability (per person)
$25,000
Bodily Injury Liability (per accident)
$50,000
Property Damage Liability
$20,000

Note that these are only the minimum requirements, and you can always opt for higher coverage limits to provide more protection for yourself and your assets.

Furthermore, Illinois law also requires drivers to have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which covers you in case you get into an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damages.

Tips for Finding Cheap Car Insurance in IL

Shop Around

One of the most effective ways to find cheap car insurance in IL is to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance providers. You can do this either by contacting each company directly, or by using an online comparison tool that allows you to get multiple quotes at once.

When comparing quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. That is, make sure the coverage limits, deductibles, and other terms are the same across all quotes. This will help you make an informed decision and get the best deals.

Take Advantage of Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts to their customers, which can significantly reduce your insurance premiums. Some common discounts include:

  • Good driver discounts
  • Multi-car discounts
  • Good student discounts
  • Loyalty discounts
  • Safety features discounts (e.g. anti-theft devices, airbags, etc.)

Make sure you ask your insurance provider about any available discounts, and take advantage of them if you qualify.

Consider Increasing Your Deductible

Your deductible is the amount of money you need to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in. By increasing your deductible, you can lower your insurance premiums. However, make sure you can afford to pay the deductible in case you get into an accident.

Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score can also affect your insurance premiums. Insurance providers use credit scores as one of the factors in determining your risk level as a driver. Therefore, improving your credit score can result in lower insurance premiums.

Drive Safely and Maintain a Clean Driving Record

Your driving record is one of the most important factors in determining your insurance premiums. If you have a history of accidents, tickets, or other violations, you’re considered a high-risk driver and will be charged higher premiums. Therefore, make sure you drive safely and maintain a clean driving record to avoid any surcharges.

FAQs

1. Is car insurance mandatory in Illinois?

Yes, all drivers in Illinois must have liability insurance that covers at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 for property damage.

2. What happens if I get into an accident and I don’t have insurance?

If you get into an accident and you don’t have insurance, you’ll be liable for all the damages and injuries that result from the accident. Moreover, you’ll face legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and possible imprisonment.

3. Can I get car insurance if I have a bad driving record?

Yes, you can still get car insurance if you have a bad driving record, but you’ll likely be charged higher premiums. However, some insurance providers specialize in insuring high-risk drivers, so make sure to shop around and compare quotes.

4. How often should I shop around for car insurance?

It’s recommended to shop around for car insurance at least once a year, or whenever there’s a significant change in your circumstances, such as buying a new car, moving to a new location, or adding a new driver to your policy.

5. How can I reduce my car insurance premiums?

You can reduce your car insurance premiums by shopping around, taking advantage of discounts, increasing your deductible, improving your credit score, and maintaining a clean driving record.

Hopefully, this article has provided you with valuable information on how to find cheap car insurance in Illinois. Remember, having car insurance is not only mandatory but also essential for protecting yourself and your assets. By following the tips and advice outlined in this article, you can get the best deals on car insurance and drive with peace of mind.