Do You Need Drunk Driver Insurance in Illinois?

Reader’s Question:

My driver’s license was suspended because of my drunk driving charge. Is it true that this can be a reason for my car insurance rates to go up?

Barry

Des Plaines, IL

The states don’t allow insurance providers not to give coverage to people because of their color, faith, residence, profession or age but they can drop your policy for some other reasons. This includes having a suspended driver’s license, too many tickets or having a felony, criminal negligence or DUI conviction. Car insurance providers typically treat those who have drunk driving charge differently than those who have a clean driving record. They usually charge higher car insurance premium rates or they can even drop the policy.

Since you have a drunk driving charge in Illinois, you will be tagged as a high risk driver. If your car insurance provider finds out about it and decides to keep you, they would likely increase your premiums. In that case, you will be expected to file a proof of insurance, or what is called SR22, so that your driver’s license will be reinstated. Also, because of the SR22, your car insurance provider would notify the Department of Motor Vehicles if your car insurance policy is canceled for whatever reason.

Drunk Driver Insurance in Chicago Illinois

Reader’s Question:

I got into an accident because I was drunk while driving my friend’s vehicle here in Chicago, Illinois. If I have full coverage and he only has liability insurance, will my insurance cover the accident since I was the one driving the car?

Aaron

Chicago, IL

The phrase “full coverage” is being utilized by most of us when we point out to Physical Damage coverage. This means that a person has Liability insurance and Physical Damage, at times besides other insurance combination’s to be fully covered. Physical damage coverage comprises Collision and Comprehensive coverage. Typically, collision insurance covers damage to only your vehicle caused by collision with another object or by upset. On the other hand, comprehensive insurance covers damage to only your vehicle from theft, vandalism, glass breakage or anything other than Collision.

Most mortgage holders, loss payees and rental companies demand Physical Damage coverage if you are financing or leasing your automobile. This coverage doesn’t extend to other automobiles and they won’t cover your friend’s car or become secondary insurance behind another car’s primary insurance. His liability coverage in Chicago, Illinois will be “primary,” and your liability coverage would be “excess or secondary” to the liability coverage.