Personal Injury Law Blog

When it comes to car insurance, it’s easy to think that having the state-required minimum coverage is enough to keep you safe and protected. However, if you’re involved in a car accident in Chicago, the minimum amount of car insurance may not be sufficient to cover all the expenses you might face. Read on to learn more about Illinois’ minimum insurance requirements, how Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage works, and why sticking with the minimum coverage levels could leave you financially exposed.

What Are the Minimum Illinois Insurance Requirements?

In Illinois, the law requires drivers to have a minimum amount of car insurance. The current minimum liability limits are:

• $25,000 for injury or death of one person in an accident
• $50,000 for injury or death of more than one person in an accident
• $20,000 for damage to property of another person

While these amounts might seem like a lot, they can quickly be exceeded in a serious accident. Medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other expenses can add up fast, leaving you responsible for covering the difference out of your own pocket.

Understanding UM and UIM Coverage

Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage are types of insurance that provide additional protection in case you’re involved in an accident with a driver who either doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damages.

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This kicks in if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have any insurance. It helps cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to the accident.
• Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: This comes into play if the at-fault driver has insurance but their coverage limits are too low to pay for all your damages. UIM coverage will help fill the gap between their policy limits and your actual expenses.

Why Minimum Coverage May Not Be Enough

Medical Bills Can Be Sky-High

A serious car accident can lead to extensive medical treatment, including emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care. Even a minor accident can result in medical bills that exceed the minimum insurance coverage. If your medical expenses surpass the at-fault driver’s insurance limits, you could be left paying the difference.

Property Damage Adds Up Quickly

The cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle can be substantial, especially if you drive a newer or luxury car. The minimum property damage coverage of $20,000 might not be enough to cover the cost of a total loss. If your car is totaled and its value exceeds the coverage limit, you’ll have to cover the remaining balance yourself.

Lost Wages and Other Costs

In addition to medical bills and property damage, accidents can lead to lost wages if you’re unable to work while recovering. You might also face other costs such as transportation expenses, home modifications, or childcare. Minimum insurance coverage may not account for these additional expenses, leaving you financially vulnerable.

Protecting Yourself with Higher Coverage Limits

To avoid being left in a difficult financial situation after an accident, it’s wise to consider carrying higher insurance limits than the state minimum. Increasing your liability limits and adding UM/UIM coverage can provide extra protection and peace of mind. While higher coverage might come with a slightly higher premium, it can save you from significant out-of-pocket expenses if you’re involved in a serious accident.

What to Do If You’re in an Accident

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Chicago, you need to take certain steps to protect your health as well as your right to pursue compensation from the liable party. Below are a few non-negotiables:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Get medical help immediately, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
• Report the Accident: Contact the police as soon as possible and file a report. This can be important because it serves as proof the accident occurred and makes it harder for the insurance company to deny your claim.
• Gather Information: Collect information from the other drivers involved as well as any witnesses who observed the accident. You should also take photos of the accident scene and any damage to your vehicle as well as any others involved. 
• Contact an Attorney: Reach out to a Chicago car accident lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we can help you understand your rights and options, especially if you’re facing challenges with insurance coverage.

Speak with an Experienced Chicago Car Accident Attorney About Your Auto Insurance Claim Today

While it might be tempting to stick with the minimum required car insurance, doing so can leave you exposed to significant financial risks if you’re involved in a car accident. Understanding the benefits of higher coverage limits and UM/UIM coverage can help you make informed decisions to better protect yourself and your loved ones. If you need assistance after an accident, the team at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can support you through this challenging time. You can reach us at 1-877-595-4878 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an experienced attorney.