Illinois Auto Insurance - Collision vs. Comprehensive Insurance Plans
Although the minimum coverage required in the state of Illinois is third-party or umbrella coverage
, most experts recommend that drivers look into a higher level of coverage than this, for their own protection. Most Illinois auto insurance falls into two categories, collision and comprehensive. While they sound alike, and it is easy to get the two of them mixed up, they are in fact quite different and should both be weighted equally to determine which type of coverage is the best idea for your needs. That could depend on a variety of factors, including who in the household is driving, the age and type of your vehicle, and what your household budget is.The first type of Illinois auto insurance is collision coverage. This is meant to protect your car and person in the event of an accident with another driver, or multiple drivers. The minimum level of coverage in the state may only cover the damages to another vehicle, which is why it's better to get the collision coverage to protect your own car as well. This is just an extra level of security, in case the other driver isn't insured, or if you don't have health insurance. While no one wants to think about accidents happening, the truth is that this is a reality for every driver, no matter how cautious they might be.
For the highest level of Illinois auto insurance that will cover all damages under the sun, there is comprehensive insurance. This not only covers the fees from an accident to the vehicle, and medical bills, but also damages for more random events. These could include car theft, vandalism, or collisions with stray wild animals out on the road, for example. The price of the comprehensive plan will vary according to many different factors, including your driving record, make and model of vehicle, and credit rating, among others.
Because of all of these different factors that are weighed in, the ultimate cost of Illinois auto insurance will greatly depend on the company that you are purchasing the coverage plan. That's why it is so highly recommended to obtain a number of free car insurance quotes up front, and compare them to find the best deal for your personal circumstances. Whether you choose collision or comprehensive will depend on these quotes and what you feel safe driving around with, as well as other budgetary features. Auto insurance can be customized to some degree.
Illinois Auto Insurance - Collision vs. Comprehensive Insurance Plans
By: Bob Woodard