Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and the third largest city in the United States. Chicago is consistently rated as one of the best cities in the country – while some areas are notoriously dangerous, the center of Chicago is thriving. Chicago is the largest financial center outside of New York City – it plays home to a variety of different services industries and businesses. In addition, the city is the host of many large events and several professional sports teams.

If you’re one of the millions of people that call Chicago home, there’s a high chance you have a vehicle in the city. While there is plenty of great public transport in Chicago, many people still own cars. If you’re looking to insure your vehicle, it’s important that you opt to work with the best insurance companies on the market. Our website is dedicated to helping you find the perfect insurance company with our custom car insurance cost calculator. We’ll also provide you with useful advice on the best driving practices in Chicago – check it out below!

Chicago: Driving Conditions in the City

As Chicago is the third largest city in the country, you’re going to have to contend with quite a bit of traffic in the city – especially during rush hour. For this reason, many people opt to take the train to work throughout the year. Make sure to check traffic reports online or on the radio before you head off on any journeys – especially on weekdays.

The primary driving hazard in Chicago is weather. The city can reach extremely low temperatures – there have been a number of brutal winter storms in recent years. If you want to avoid this, you need to be aware during the winter months. Snow and ice often create extremely hazardous conditions that can be hard to escape. If you don’t have any experience driving in the winter, stay at home!

Driving Safely in Chicago, Illinois

While you can avoid traffic and bad weather for the most part by being aware of your surroundings, you still need to understand the local laws in Chicago. If you’re new to the area, there’s a high chance you don’t have an understanding of the local road laws. In addition, it can help you keep down your insurance premiums. Insurance companies tend to prefer drivers who have clean driving records. Check out the top laws in the region below!

Phone/Handheld Laws in Chicago

While many states in the United States continue to allow people to use phones while they drive, the state of Illinois has a much stricter approach. They do not allow you to use your phone at all while you drive – this includes texting and talking. The only way you are able to use a phone in Chicago while driving is if it is set up through a completely hands-free system.

Distracted driving is responsible for the deaths of a large number of Americans each year. If you want to avoid getting into trouble with the police, you need to wait to use your phone after you’re done driving. It could save a life.

Seatbelt and Car Seat Laws in Chicago

Illinois is one of the few states that requires seat belts for all passengers in vehicles, regardless of age or position of seat. If you are an adult in Chicago, you are expected by law to wear a seat belt at all times.

In terms of children, if your child is under the age of two years old, they must be in a rear facing car seat in the rear of your vehicle. Children under the age of eight, and over the age of two, need to be situated in an appropriate safety seat – whether this be a car seat or booster seat. Not securing a child correctly can carry stiff penalties – make sure to prioritize the safety of children in your vehicle.

Helmet Laws in Chicago

Illinois is one of three states that has a complete lack of regulation on motorcycle helmets. It doesn’t matter how old you are or if you have medical insurance, you can go without a helmet while on a motorcycle in Illinois and Chicago. While this has made the state a popular destination with many motorcyclists, it’s not without its disadvantages. Not wearing a motorcycle helmet can prove to be very deadly – there is evidence that wearing a helmet greatly increases your ability to survive an accident.

Alcohol and Drug Laws (Driving)

If you’re over the age of 21 in Chicago, the legal BAC level is .08 – if you’re under the age of 21, the limit is 0. Illinois is one of the few states that has a zero tolerance policy for those under the age of 21. If you’re operating a commercial vehicle, the limit is .04.

If you are caught drinking and driving, you will receive a jail sentence of up to a year, license suspension for up to a year, and up to $2,500 in fines. Don’t forget that you will likely need to get what’s called SR22 insurance which can cost you a lot more than normal insurance. These penalties increase drastically if you are a repeat offender or if you are extremely intoxicated.

Chicago Statistics

Chicago has often been called the most dangerous city in America. A wave of crime seems to have overtaken certain areas of the city. While the center of Chicago is very safe, the southern parts of the city have a reputation for extremely high murder rates – other forms of crime are also prevalent. As car theft is a major issue in the city, you need to try and find a comprehensive insurance policy that covers theft and damage.

This is especially true if you live in a suburb of Chicago that is known for its crime levels!

Verdict

Auto insurance is one of the most important investments you can make – choosing the right plan can help you protect your finances. If you choose a great policy, you’ll also be able to save money on your premiums. Use the information in this article to remain safe on the roads in Chicago. The better your driving record, the cheaper your insurance will be.

If you need help finding cheap car insurance in Illinois, make sure to check out some of the insurance providers mentioned on our page. We also have some other great resources on our site such as car insurance rates by state for those who need to learn more about the auto insurance industry.