When choosing new automobile insurance, it is imperative to fully understand which coverage is best suited for you. We are here to help you navigate the differences between Full Tort, Limited Tort, and “Choice” No Fault options in Pennsylvania.
How Does Tort Insurance Work?
Tort Coverage helps to protect those involved in car accidents by allowing them to receive compensation for damages due to another person’s negligence. While Pennsylvania is a “no fault” state, they allow residents to opt out of this system by choosing a tort policy. Understanding the differences between Full and Limited Tort is key.
Pennsylvania’s “Choice” No Fault System
Few states have a “choice” no fault system in place. Pennsylvania happens to be one of these states. This system allows drivers the option of choosing a tort policy, as opposed to no fault coverage. Those who choose a tort policy must decide between a Full Tort or Limited Tort policy.
While Full Tort insurance typically costs a bit more, it gives you more freedom to pursue legal action against the at fault driver. Whereas Limited Tort makes it harder to pursue legal action due to the fact that you cannot claim pain and suffering and may have other limitations as well. Generally speaking, by choosing a limited tort policy, you most likely will face more out of pocket expenses.
Full Tort Vs. Limited Tort
Understanding these terms is essential for anyone navigating the complexities of insurance coverage and compensation following an accident or injury. In this series of articles, we will delve deep into the differences between full tort and limited tort, their implications on your legal rights, and how they can impact your ability to seek full compensation for damages.
Whether you are a current insurance policyholder, or someone seeking clarity after an unfortunate incident, our goal is to provide comprehensive insights to help you make informed decisions and protect your rights effectively.
Full Tort
Full tort coverage protects the persons involved in an automobile accident. You maintain your right to compensation for vehicle damage, medical bills, physical injuries, pain and suffering, loss of income and more. Full Tort coverage typically costs a bit more, but gives you unrestricted access to sue the other party for “pain and suffering.”
Limited Tort
Limited tort coverage allows those insured to file a claim for compensation of medical bills and other out of pocket expenses, but does not allow claims for “pain and suffering” even if the automobile accident was another driver’s fault.
There are a few exceptions to this rule. Those will limited tort can sue for pain and suffering under a few conditions:
- If they suffer from a serious injury or death
- If the other driver is convicted of driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- If the other driver intentionally caused your injuries
- If the other driver was driving a vehicle registered out of state
- If the other driver had no insurance
Limited Tort is typically the cheaper option, given that insurers are providing you with less resources to sue.
Filing a Tort Insurance Claim
After an automobile accident, it is essential to remember a few key points that will help when filing an insurance claim:
- Assess all those in need of medical attention
- Immediately call 911 to report the accident and request medical care
- Have law enforcement file an incident report- this will help insurers in determining fault/negligence
- Exchange contact information with the other driver
- Be sure to document damage via photos and/or videos
- Contact your insurer to begin the claims process
When filing a car accident claim in Pennsylvania, it is important to report as soon as possible. If you experience injuries after the car accident, such as back or neck pain, you have up to 2 years from the injury discovery date to file a claim with your insurance.
By hiring an experienced accident attorney, you have someone fighting to get you the compensation you deserve.
Get The Right Legal Guidance Today!
Freeburn Law has a team of dedicated personal injury lawyers available in nine locations across Pennsylvania. Our attorneys have been advocating for those injured in automobile accidents for nearly 40 years.
We know from years of experience that insurance companies will offer their best plans and then give you their lowest payout. Our lawyers will stand up to major insurance companies to get you the payout that you are entitled to.
If you are unsure of which policy best fits your needs, contact us online or give us a call at 717-777-7777 to learn more!