Cutting Insurance to Save Money? Here’s What You Risk Losing
Nearly 1 in 4 Americans say they have downgraded or dropped insurance coverage to put more cash in their pockets. It’s tempting—especially with rising costs everywhere—but the risks can be surprising, severe, and long-lasting.
Imagine: Your monthly budget is stretched thin. Dropping your car insurance seems like a quick fix. But what’s the cost if you end up in an accident tomorrow—or face a sudden ER visit with no coverage at all?
Key Stat: 24% of Americans have dropped or downgraded insurance for financial relief (Source: CNBC)
Which Insurance Policies Are Most Likely to Get Cut?
- Auto Insurance: 15% have cut or dropped their policy.
- Health Insurance: 8% reduced or ended their coverage.
- Homeowners Insurance: 5% risk being uninsured for property damage or liability.
Top Insight for Illinois Families: Cutting back on coverage feels like a solution, but just one uninsured accident or emergency can set you back tens of thousands of dollars. At Wilkins Insurance, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly these decisions can turn from relief to regret.
What Are the Real Financial Risks?
| Situation |
Out-of-Pocket Cost |
| Minor Car Accident |
$5,000+ |
| Major Car Accident (Injury/Liability) |
Up to $60,000 |
| Average ER Visit (with no insurance) |
$2,715+ |
| Home Fire / Major Property Damage |
$10,000–$250,000+ |
Yes, dropping insurance can save a few hundred dollars a year. But even a single emergency—like a broken arm or fender bender—can erase those savings many times over. The risk isn’t just financial; it’s about protecting your family’s stability and peace of mind.
What Does the Law Require? Watch Out for State Mandates
- Auto Insurance: Most states, including Illinois, require you to carry minimum auto insurance. If you drive without it, you risk major fines—and if you cause an accident, you could be personally sued for all damages.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM): Required in 22 states + D.C. Protects you when you’re hit by an uninsured driver
- Health Insurance: Only 5 states + D.C. require it. Most states (including Illinois) do not penalize you for lacking coverage—but you assume full financial risk if something goes wrong.
- New Hampshire: Unique—no general auto insurance mandate, but you must prove "financial responsibility" to the tune of $100,000+ if you’re at fault in an accident.
What Are Your Smarter Options? (Hint: There’s a Better Way)
- Reduce—don’t remove: Raise your deductible or lower coverage on older cars, but always keep core protection (liability, health minimums, homeowner’s basics).
- Shop smarter: Bundling policies, reviewing discounts for things like safe driving or home security can save you hundreds while still keeping you protected.
- Work with a local expert: Big-box online policies look cheap, but local agents (like us) help you avoid costly gaps that can ruin those “savings.”
Making the Decision: A Quick Insurance Safety Checklist
- What’s the most I could lose if I dropped this insurance?
- What are the state or lender-required minimums for my coverage?
- Can I raise my deductible for a lower payment (if I have the savings to cover it)?
- Have I asked about bundling, loyalty, or home security discounts?
- What’s my plan if something goes wrong tomorrow?
Never assume a quick cut is the safest saving. Talk to a pro first.
Wilkins Insurance: Your Local Resource for Smarter Coverage
We’re more than a policy number. For families and business owners in Frankfort, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Mokena, and New Lenox, we blend national strength (Farmers® Insurance) and local expertise to give you the right coverage before you need it.
- Prevent costly coverage gaps—don’t cut corners, cut costs the smart way.
- Get a quick quote or policy review—there’s no obligation, just insights.
- Ask us about new ways AI is personalizing insurance solutions for your needs.
Ready to keep your finances—and your family—secure? Book your insurance review now!
About Wilkins Insurance: Serving Frankfort and the south suburbs, we combine clear, honest advice with digital tools and AI-backed solutions—so you’re never left exposed. Let’s protect what matters most, together.