Pennsylvania allows drivers to choose between “Limited Tort” and “Full Tort” auto insurance. Choosing Limited Tort typically means a lower premium but restricts the right to seek compensation for pain and suffering unless the injuries meet a “serious injury” threshold. Full Tort coverage costs more but does not restrict the ability to sue for pain and suffering.

This can seem a little backwards to some drivers since what you pay influences your ability to pursue full compensation from someone else. How much you spend doesn’t affect your own liability protection, which is typically how auto insurance works.

In other words, if you have limited tort coverage and you cause a crash with someone who has full tort coverage, they can sue you for pain and suffering damages. If fault is disputed in the crash and you pursue a claim against the other driver, you would not be able to sue them for pain and suffering damages.

Pennsylvania has slightly more stringent auto insurance requirements than some states. Drivers registered in the state are legally required to carry $15,000 per person/$30,000 per accident bodily injury liability coverage, $5,000 property damage liability coverage and mandatory $15,000 per person/$30,000 per accident uninsured motorists coverage.

Most states do not require drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, but it can be a nice thing to have. Without it, any accident you are involved in with an uninsured driver may result in you paying for all your medical costs and property damage yourself – unless you also have collision coverage.

The financial implications of an injury are immediate – from medical bills and rehabilitation costs to lost wages if you’re unable to work. In Pennsylvania, where many individuals may not have adequate health insurance coverage, these costs can become overwhelming.

Furthermore, the emotional toll of an injury can be just as debilitating as the physical pain. Coping with both can strain your personal relationships, negatively affect your ability to care for your family and reduce your overall quality of life.