State Farm to Monitor Some Illinois Drivers, Adjust Rates

State Farm Insurance plans to give its Illinois customers a chance to lower – or raise -their rates depending on their driving habits.

The Bloomington-based insurer says that in September it will start putting a monitoring device in vehicles driven by customers who choose to be part of the program.

Missy Lundberg of State Farm tells the (Peoria) Journal Star that the devices will monitor mileage, acceleration, braking and other factors. Safer drivers will get lower rates and those who aren’t as safe will see rates go up.

Lundberg says the devices could also be useful for parents to see if children who drive are speeding. She says customers can also choose to add on a vehicle location monitor or high-speed alerts sent via email or phone.