Motorcycle Insurance Minimum Requirements in Illinois

Illinois Insurance Requirements for Motorcycles

You must carry at least the following amount of bodily and property liability insurance to satisfy the state's standards:

• $20,000 of coverage for injuries to or death of one person in an accident.

• $40,000 of coverage for injuries to or deaths of more than one person in an accident.

• $15,000 of property damage coverage per accident.

Don't be fooled, though, that by meeting the state's insurance minimum levels that you have ample protection. Most financial professionals recommend having many times more coverage than this; learn why in our Types of Coverage section.

Premium costs are a big issue for many, of course. So, try to contain those costs by shopping around online (or by phone) to find the best rates and coverages.

How Coverage Affects Helmet Requirements

Some states lessen the financial responsibility requirements for cyclists who wear helmets when riding. Illinois doesn't follow this practice, and cyclists aren't required to wear a helmet.

Proof of Insurance and Financial Responsibility

Be sure to have the insurance card issued by your carrier with you whenever you're riding your cycle; you must show it to law enforcement officials upon request.

Penalties for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility

What if you have no proof of insurance when asked to provide it by a law enforcement official following an accident or traffic stop? Or, you can't provide it after you receive the insurance verification letter that's sent randomly to residents?

If you can't provide proof of current, acceptable insurance coverage within the timeframe specified by the state, your plates will be suspended. You'll then be forced to pay at least a $500 fine, a $100 reinstatement fee, and provide proof of insurance to have the suspension lifted. If you've committed this offense before, the suspension will last a minimum of four months.

While no one may drive your vehicle while its plates are suspended, you may drive another vehicle that's covered by insurance.