I Am Reviewing My Auto Policy Options in PA – What Should I Do?
In Pennsylvania, when you purchase insurance for the vehicle you will be using, you must the law requires you to select either Full Tort or Limited Tort coverage.
Full Tort vs. Limited Tort in Pennsylvania
What is Full Tort?
Full Tort coverage in PA means that if you are injured in an accident, you can sue the other driver who was at-fault for non-monetary damages, such as pain and suffering.
Advantages:
If you choose Full Tort, you are retaining your right to sue someone who has caused you damage or injury in a car accident. This is regardless of the ultimate extent of your injuries. Full Tort coverage would allow you to seek compensation for a change in your quality of life from the accident.
Disadvantages:
The clear disadvantage is that Full Tort coverage results in a higher premium than Limited Tort coverage. If you are looking for cheaper alternatives, you’re your insurance agent will likely steer you towards Limited Tort.
What is Limited Tort?
With Limited Tort, you cannot sue the at-fault driver for your pain and suffering, i.e. the injuries you sustain in the accident. With Limited Tort, you are still eligible to receive reimbursement for medical expenses related to the injuries you suffered in the accident and for verifiable wage loss. But that is it.
Advantages:
You will save money with Limited Tort coverage – which is the only real benefit.
Disadvantages:
The other driver’s insurance carrier can, and will, deny your claim if you try to seek compensation following an accident. However, what the insurance company will not tell you is that if you are injured in an accident involving an out of state driver, OR, if you are injured in an accident involving a drunk driver, your Limited Tort status will not apply.
Furthermore, if the injuries you suffer in the accident result in permanent injury, you can still recovery against the other driver’s insurance company.
This is why it is imperative you consult with the attorneys at LUFF STRENFEL Attorney at Law to review all of your rights and potential options if you are injured in a automobile accident in Pennsylvania.
What is the best choice?
If you can afford it, Full Tort is always the better option.
Deciding whether Full Tort vs. Limited Tort is right for you depends on your tolerance for risk, and your need to save money.
The Result
Full Tort allows you to sue for pain and suffering or other purposes; Limited Tort strips you of that right.
Auto insurance pays for damages and medical bills, but without Full Tort coverage, you CANNOT seek compensation for a loss of quality of life from an accident unless you meet a clear exception.
It is more expensive to have Full Tort coverage because it gives you more rights.
Call us today!