Illinois has introduced several new speeding laws and enforcement strategies in 2025 that could significantly affect daily commuters. Here’s what you need to know:
Expanded Use of Speed Cameras
- Chicago is adding 50 new speed cameras in 2025, with many already active in school and park zones. These cameras issue fines to drivers exceeding the speed limit by as little as 6 mph.
- Fines are structured as follows:
- 6–10 mph over the limit: $35 fine
- 11+ mph over the limit: $100 fine
- Cameras operate during park hours (typically 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.) and school hours, with clear signage posted at enforcement zones.
- Initial warning periods are in place when new cameras are installed, but after that, fines are automatically issued to violators.
Proposed AI Speed Cameras
- A state bill is considering the use of AI-powered speed cameras, especially on high-crash roads like DuSable Lake Shore Drive. These could detect not just speeding but also other unsafe driving behaviors (like tailgating or weaving).
- If adopted, these cameras would ticket drivers going 6 mph or more over the limit, with fines starting at $50.
Speeding Fines and Penalties
| Speed Over Limit | Fine/Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| 1–20 mph | $120–$150 | 5–20 points on license |
| 21–25 mph | $140 | More points on license |
| 26–34 mph | Up to $1,500, Class B misdemeanor, up to 6 months jail | Mandatory court appearance |
| 35+ mph | Up to $2,500, Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year jail | Mandatory court appearance, possible license suspension |
- School and construction zones: Minimum $150–$250 for first offense, higher for repeat offenses.
- Automated camera tickets: May not always affect insurance rates, but unpaid tickets can lead to consequences.
Impact on Insurance
- A single speeding ticket can raise your annual insurance premium by 20–25% for at least three years.
- For example, a driver in Chicago with a clean record pays about $1,930 per year; after a ticket, this can jump to $2,632.
- Multiple tickets or higher speeds mean even steeper increases.
New Laws Affecting Commuters
- Videoconferencing while driving is now prohibited.
- Mobile app for real-time road conditions: The Department of Transportation is developing a new app to help commuters navigate construction and inclement weather.
- Additional safety requirements: New laws require best practices for stranded motorists in all driver handbooks.
What This Means for Your Commute
- More speed cameras and stricter enforcement mean you’re more likely to receive a ticket for minor speeding, especially near schools and parks.
- Fines and insurance hikes can add up quickly, making even small infractions costly.
- Stay alert for new signage and camera zones and consider using navigation apps that warn of enforcement areas.
- Adopt safer driving habits to avoid fines and keep your insurance rates low.
Summary Table: 2025 Illinois Speeding Law Changes
| Change/Enforcement | Details & Impact |
|---|---|
| New speed cameras | 50+ new cameras in Chicago, ticketing at 6+ mph over limit |
| AI camera pilot | Proposed for high-crash roads, targeting multiple violations |
| Fines | $35 (6–10 mph), $100 (11+ mph), up to $2,500 for major offenses |
| Insurance impact | 20–25% rate increase after a ticket, higher for multiple |
| Other new laws | No videoconferencing while driving, new safety app |
Illinois’s new speeding laws and expanded camera enforcement mean stricter penalties and a higher risk of fines for even minor speeding. Stay within posted limits—especially near schools and parks—to avoid costly tickets and insurance increases.
Sources:
- https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-adds-7-new-speed-cameras-across-the-city-with-chances-of-fines-for-drivers/3768019/
- https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-new-speed-cameras-june-2025-locations/
- https://abc7chicago.com/post/new-speed-cameras-chicago-2025-citys-department-transportation-adds-street-safety-tickets-begin-issued-june-15/16422712/
- https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/04/03/ai-speed-cameras-on-dusable-lake-shore-drive-state-bill-could-make-it-happen/