You can get insured in Illinois even if you’re a high-risk driver. Whether you’ve had a DUI, a license suspension, multiple accidents, or a lapse in coverage, insurers like Insure on the Spot specialize in helping drivers with complex histories. SR-22 filings can be submitted electronically to reinstate your license quickly, and many high-risk drivers secure coverage in minutes. While rates will be higher at first, maintaining continuous insurance and avoiding new violations will gradually lower your premiums.
For help getting covered today, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 or get a free online quote.
What Makes a Driver “High-Risk” in Illinois?
Insurance companies consider you high-risk if your record suggests a greater chance of filing claims. Common high-risk factors in Illinois include:
- DUI or reckless driving convictions
- Multiple tickets or at-fault accidents
- Teen drivers or new drivers under age 25
- Seniors with recent incidents or medical concerns
- Lapses in insurance coverage
- Poor credit (in insurers that use credit scores)
- Required SR-22 filings
- Owning a high-performance or high-value vehicle
- Living in a high-claim ZIP code
Some risk factors are temporary—such as a recent ticket—while others may follow you longer. Even new or returning drivers with little driving history can be classified as high-risk until they build a track record.
Important: Just because you’re considered high-risk doesn’t mean you can’t get covered. It just means you need to shop smarter. Companies like Insure on the Spot specialize in helping high-risk Illinois drivers secure fast, legal, and affordable insurance.
How to Get SR-22 Insurance in Illinois
If your license was suspended for serious violations, you may need an SR-22 form. Here’s how it works:
- Choose an insurer that files SR-22s: Not all insurers offer this service. Insure on the Spot files SR-22s electronically and instantly for Illinois drivers.
- Purchase minimum coverage: Illinois requires at least 25/50/20 liability coverage, plus uninsured motorist coverage.
- Pay the SR-22 fee: This is usually $15–$50, often included in your quote.
- Your insurer files with the Secretary of State: You’ll typically be notified when your license is reinstated. You cannot file an SR-22 yourself.
- Maintain coverage for 3 years: Any lapse triggers another suspension. Renew your policy early and consider auto-pay.
- Switch to regular coverage when eligible: After 36 months, you can drop the SR-22 and may qualify for lower rates.
Don’t own a car? You can still file an SR-22 using a non-owner policy. These are designed for drivers who need insurance but don’t own a vehicle.
Where to Get High-Risk Car Insurance in Illinois
High-risk drivers have more options than you might think:
Traditional Insurance Companies
Major insurers like GEICO, State Farm, and Progressive may insure high-risk drivers, but premiums are usually higher. Not all will file SR-22s or work with multiple violations. Some drivers are declined altogether.
Non-Standard and Specialty Insurers
Companies like The General, Dairyland, and SafeAuto focus on high-risk coverage. In Illinois, local brokers like Insure on the Spot are a top choice for SR-22 insurance, suspended license reinstatement, and drivers with multiple violations. They provide instant quotes and do not require a credit check.
Illinois Auto Insurance Plan (ILAIP)
As a last resort, the state offers assigned-risk coverage through ILAIP. You must apply via an agent and prove you’ve been denied by private insurers. Rates are high and coverage is basic—use this option only if others fail.
How to Lower Your High-Risk Insurance Premium
You won’t pay high rates forever. Here are proven strategies to reduce your premium over time:
- Drive clean: Avoid new tickets and accidents. Most violations stop affecting your rate after 3–5 years.
- Take a defensive driving course: May earn you a discount and help offset past infractions.
- Maintain continuous insurance: Lapses will reset your SR-22 timeline and raise rates.
- Improve your credit score: Illinois allows insurers to use credit in pricing. Raising your score can cut rates significantly.
- Raise your deductible or drop optional coverage: If your vehicle isn’t worth much, consider liability-only coverage temporarily.
- Compare quotes regularly: Rates drop as your record improves. Shop every 6–12 months.
- Switch to a safer vehicle: Sports or luxury cars raise rates. A modest, safety-rated vehicle can help.
How Long Will You Be Considered High-Risk?
It depends on what caused your status:
- Minor violations: Usually fall off after 3 years
- Major offenses (DUI, license suspension): 5–7 years
- Multiple incidents: May require a 3–5 year clean stretch to reset
- Lapse in coverage: Continuous insurance for 6–12 months often helps restore standard status
- Poor credit: Can improve at any time, affecting your rate based on your score
Insurers reevaluate you at each renewal. Keep your record clean, maintain coverage, and compare quotes to return to standard rates.
FAQs About High-Risk Car Insurance in Illinois
Q: What is considered a high-risk driver in Illinois?
A: Anyone with a history of serious traffic violations, license suspension, lapses in insurance, or other risk factors like being a new driver, senior driver with accidents, or having poor credit.
Q: Can I get insurance after a DUI?
A: Yes. You’ll need SR-22 insurance, which many specialized providers in Illinois (like Insure on the Spot) can help you secure immediately. Rates will be higher, but coverage is available.
Q: How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Illinois?
A: At least 3 years from the date your license is eligible for reinstatement. Any lapse restarts the clock.
Q: What’s the cheapest company for high-risk drivers in Illinois?
A: Rates vary, but companies like Mercury, American Family, and Insure on the Spot often offer lower premiums for high-risk drivers. Always compare quotes.
Q: How can I reduce my high-risk insurance premium quickly?
A: Take a defensive driving course, maintain coverage, avoid new tickets, improve your credit score, and shop around at each renewal.
Q: What if no company will insure me?
A: The Illinois Auto Insurance Plan guarantees coverage, but it’s expensive. High-risk specialists like Insure on the Spot can usually find better options first.
Q: Will my high-risk status eventually go away?
A: Yes. Most violations are removed from rate calculations after 3–7 years. With a clean record and continuous coverage, you’ll become eligible for lower rates.
Ready to Get Back on the Road?
High-risk doesn’t mean uninsurable. Get a free quote online from Insure on the Spot in under two minutes or call 773-202-5060 to speak with a friendly Illinois-based agent. Whether you need SR-22 coverage or just want help finding the lowest rate, we’ll help you drive legally—and affordably—today.