Auto Insurance in Waukegan, IL
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Driving in Waukegan, Illinois, (IL)
Waukegan, Illinois, (IL) with its population of approximately 86,075, is located less than an hour from the city of Chicago. Residents of Waukegan have a one-way commute averaging 26.2 minutes, slightly shorter than the nationwide average of 26.4 minutes. 75% of people in the city drive alone in their personal vehicle to work, while 16% carpool with others. The typical household in Waukegan owns two cars. Clearly, personal vehicles are important to quality of life, necessitating car insurance in Waukegan, IL to protect physical assets and ensure financial stability.
Why You Need Car Insurance in Waukegan
Car insurance in Waukegan, IL is important for much more than just your personal well-being and peace of mind. Here are some reasons why you need an auto insurance policy:
- Illinois state law: all drivers must hold liability insurance. Computer checks are conducted twice a year; non-compliant drivers may lose their license with a $100 fine to reinstate it and additional penalties up to $1000 for driving on suspended plates. The following minimum coverages are mandated:
- $25,000 for single personal injury or death
- $50,000 for multiple personal injuries or deaths
- $20,000 for property damage
- Financial protection: you may be responsible for expenses if you cause an accident, including legal fees, medical expenses or even lost income for the accident victim. Liability coverage may assist with these costs, which you would otherwise have to cover out of pocket.
- Lender requirement: as the lienholder of your newly financed or leased vehicle, your lender or leasing agent may require collision and/or comprehensive car insurance in Waukegan, IL while you're making payments to cover repairs or replacement in case of damage or loss.
- Repair cost relief: even if you own your vehicle, collision and comprehensive policies can help you with repair coverage in the event of theft or damage from the weather or other incident.
- Personal injury protection: if you or your passengers are injured in an accident, personal injury protection and medical payments coverage can assist in paying for doctor bills, hospital visits, or surgery.
Auto Insurance Myths
There is a great deal of misinformation circulating about car insurance in Waukegan, IL. Here is a list of some common myths to help you navigate your search for the best insurance policy.
- Myth #1: Insurance can lapse before the policy expiration. This is completely false: car insurance companies cannot cancel your policy due to an accident or moving violation. By making timely payments on your policies, you are contracted to hold your insurance for the duration of your term.
- Myth #2: Red cars cost more to insure. While outdated beliefs held that red cars were more likely to be involved in accidents and therefore more expensive to insure, studies indicate no correlation between cost of insurance premiums and color of vehicle.
- Myth #3: If someone borrows your car, their insurance will cover damages. If you lend out your vehicle and the borrower cause an accident, your insurance policy may cover damage to your vehicle but generally not any personal injuries that may occur (unless you have collision coverage). Additionally, your premiums can increase as a result.
- Myth #4: Your credit history doesn't impact auto insurance costs. This is untrue. Illinois insurance companies may utilize credit-based insurance scores in the risk-assessment process. This includes data about your length of credit history, credit mix, outstanding debt, payment history, and additional pursuit of credit.
This information is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.