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The Chicago Blog

Archive for the ‘Driving’ Category

May 23rd, 2010
By: Vince Hickey
Chief Writer
vinnie@chicago.com
http://www.chicago.com

Illinois’ mandatory insurance law is one of the most significant consumer protection measures now on the books. Comply or end up like this.

handcuffs

The Law

You are in compliance with the mandatory insurance law if you have vehicle liability insurance in the following minimum amounts:

  • $20,000 – injury or death of one person in an accident
  • $40,000 – injury or death of more than one person in an accident
  • $15,000 – damage to property of another person

You must always carry your insurance card in your vehicle and show it upon request by any law enforcement officer. Your insurance company will send you an insurance card, usually when your insurance policy is issued or renewed.

Your signature on the Vehicle Renewal Registration Application affirms that your vehicle will be properly insured throughout the registration period.

Enforcement

Enforcement of the mandatory insurance law is accomplished through a random questionnaire sampling process and the issuance of traffic tickets.

  • If the computer randomly selects your vehicle, you will receive a questionnaire asking for the name of your insurance company and policy number. Your answers will be verified with the company you name. If you do not have insurance or fail to return the questionnaire with the requested information, your license plates will be suspended.
  • If you are stopped for a traffic violation or involved in an accident, a law enforcement officer may issue a traffic citation if you are unable to provide evidence of insurance. If convicted, your license plates will be suspended and you will face the following fines:
    • minimum $500 fine for driving uninsured
    • minimum $1,000 fine for driving a vehicle while the license plates are suspended for a previous insurance violation

    We have been getting a ton of emails about Chicago’s insurance policies. Well here you go! If you have any other insurance questions contact Vince “da insurance guy” Lifonti, over at Lifonti insurance.   Where theyalways treat you like family!

  • email :  vince@lifontiinsurance.com
  • Phone: 1(630)268-8200

March 29th, 2010
By: Vince Hickey
Chief Writer
vinnie@chicago.com
http://www.chicago.com

Chicago native Robert Warren puts the go in Chica-GO. This bright minded entrepreneur is an example of how integrity, hard work, and motivation can make your dreams come true.   I’ve known this guy since high school when he used to tinker with my beautiful ‘96 pearl white Lincoln Continental.  We used to sit in his garage on cold Chicago winters with his tube heater cranked and Metallica blaring in the background.  I could always trust Rob to give me a great deal for really top notch work.  I’ve kept in touch with him over the years and his garage at his Ma’s eventually became too small.  A couple years ago, Rob opened up R/S Automotive in Oak Forest.  It’s a beautiful joint with 3 bays and complete auto repair capabilities.  I think it’s great to help your friends out, so if your car  is sputtering or you need your oil changed, these are some really stand up guys who will take great care of you.  You don’t see high standards like this that often these days, and I give credit where credit is due.  Check R/S Automotive out and tell your friends.  Also, you can catch Rob and his band SOMBER performing all over Chicago.  These guys rock.

If you know of any other great local heroes or entrepreneurs that need a shout out, let Cousin Vinnie know. Chicago.com supports Chicago’s workers.

robert warren

R/S AUTOMOTIVE INC. We are a Complete Auto Repair facility. We can handle any job big or small from a tire repair to engine replacement and anything in between. Please call for an appointment today!!! 708-687-1100…..


January 4th, 2010
By: Vince Hickey
Chief Writer
vinnie@chicago.com
http://www.chicago.com
texting-while-drivingEvery year on January 1 new laws go into effect, and 2010 is no different. The following are a few of the new laws on the books this year that you should be aware of:
1) It is illegal to compose, send or read text messages, instant messages and/or e-mails on a cell phone or surf the internet while driving. This law has already been in effect in the city of Chicago as well as 16 other states, but now affects the whole state of Illinois. The only exception to the rule is checking a GPS.

2) It is illegal to use a cellphone at any time while operating a motor vehicle on a roadway in a school speed zone, or on a highway in a construction or maintenance speed zone.

3) Illinois motorists must now carry insurance on off-road vehicles when used on Illinois street, highway or roadways. A non-highway vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle not specifically designed for use on a public highway and includes the following:

1. All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
2. Golf Carts
3. Off-Highway Motorcycles
Drivers will need to carry an Insurance ID Cards for each of their off-road vehicles before operating them on an Illinois roadway.
Have other Insurance questions or looking for a free quote on Home, Auto, or Off Road Vehicle Insurance? Contact Vince LiFonti  at LiFonti Insurance Services, Ltd. at Vince@LiFontiInsurance.com or check out their website at www.LiFontiInsurance.com for other coverages offered.
Read more Illinois driving laws at:
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/

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