Beginning January 1, 1990, all Illinois motor vehicle owners were required to carry vehicle liability insurance . This insurance covers the property damage or injuries you may cause others in an accident.

The five million owners who have liability insurance already are in compliance with the law, and need not worry. On the other hand, the two million uninsured motorists on our streets and highways will face tough and costly penalties under the new law.

The Secretary of State's office will work with the police to enforce the law. Motorists stopped for traffic violations or involved in accidents will be checked for liability insurance. Random computer checks of insurance information also will identify uninsured vehicle owners.

If your motor vehicle is not insured for liability on and after January 1, 1990, you face the following penalties and expenses:

* A minimum $500 fine for driving uninsured;

* Suspension of your vehicle registration (license plates) for at least two months;

* Your vehicle may not be driven by anyone while its license plates are suspended. The minimum fine for driving a suspended vehicle is $1000.

* A $50 reinstatement fee must be paid and proof of insurance must be submitted before your suspension is ended. The fee for repeat offenders is $100.

* If you are at fault in an accident, you are responsible for the victims' medical and property damage costs. If you cannot pay for these costs, you probably will lose your drivers license and license plates indefinitely.

YOU WILL BE CHECKED

The state will check your liability insurance in three ways;

(1) If you are stopped for a traffic violation, the police officer may ask to see your insurance card.

(2) If you are involved in an accident, all drivers involved and the police officer at the scene must fill out a accident reports. The accident reports include information on your insurance. After the reports are filled out, they are sent to the state for review.

(3) If the computer randomly picks your vehicle, you will receive a letter from the Secretary of State asking for the name of your insurance company. Your answer will be checked with the company you name. If you did not have insurance at the time we mailed the letter, or if you do not answer the letter, your license plates will be suspended.

BUYING INSURANCE

Call your Community Insurance agent now to buy insurance for your vehicle. Some companies do not sell insurance to vehicle owners who had been driving uninsured, but Community does. If you have problems buying insurance, ask Community about the Illinois Automobile Insurance Plan.

Community Insurance Center, Inc.
526 East 87th Street - Chicago, IL 60619
(773) 651-6200 Fax: (773) 651-8264
E-mail: sales@communityins.com