Illinois has passed legislation requiring all vehicle owners to have at least minimum auto insurance. Liability insurance is mandatory should you be found the at-fault driver in an accident on roads in the state.
Illinois Is Not a “no Fault” Auto Accident State
Illinois is a “fault” state when it comes to financial responsibility for injuries and losses stemming from an accident. In a fault state, the driver deemed to be at fault for causing the mishap is held responsible for compensating anyone that was injured as a result of the accident. In reality, it is typically the insurance company of the at-fault driver that pays, up to the monetary limit of the policy.
There are three ways a person that was injured or suffered property damage in an accident can proceed.
- File a claim with their insurance company
- File a third-party claim against the insurance company of the at-fault driver, or
- File a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver
Mandatory Insurance in Illinois
All vehicle owners must carry liability insurance for all vehicles registered in their name. The minimum insurance required is:
- $25,000 for injury or death of one person
- $50,000 total for all injuries or deaths, and
- $20,000 for damage to property owned by others
This minimum auto insurance is intended to pay medical bills, damage to property, and other expenses of those injured or those whose property was damaged, up to limits. Although there is mandated minimum insurance required, it is wise to carry more coverage. Greater coverage will be needed in the event the accident is serious, resulting in significant injury to others and damage to the other vehicle. It is important to understand that, once the limits of coverage are exhausted, you become personally liable. Higher coverage can protect your assets.
