Estimated Read Time: 6 minutes
When you purchase automobile insurance in Pennsylvania, one of the most important choices you’ll make is between full tort and limited tort coverage. This decision can significantly impact your ability to recover damages after a car accident. Many drivers are confused about what each option covers, and insurance companies sometimes take advantage of that confusion.
At The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C., we have over 60 years of combined legal experience helping Schuylkill County residents navigate the complexities of car accident claims and insurance coverage. Here’s what you need to know about full tort and limited tort coverage in Pennsylvania.
Limited Tort vs Full Tort Coverage
It’s essential to understand that full coverage for your vehicle, such as comprehensive or collision insurance, is separate from full tort coverage. Choosing limited tort may lower your premiums, but it often restricts your ability to recover certain damages if you are injured in an accident caused by someone else.
- Full tort coverage allows you to pursue all applicable damages, including pain and suffering, in addition to medical bills and lost wages.
- Limited tort coverage generally limits your recovery to economic damages like medical expenses (not covered by PIP) and lost wages. Pain and suffering are typically excluded.
This is why insurers ask drivers to sign forms acknowledging their coverage choice. Many drivers opt for limited tort because of the lower cost, but it’s crucial to understand the trade-offs.
Pennsylvania Limited Tort Exceptions
Even if you choose limited tort, some exceptions can allow you to pursue full tort damages. These exceptions ensure that seriously injured victims are not unfairly restricted. They include:
- Serious Injury: Any injury that causes significant bodily impairment, deformity, or scarring.
- Pedestrian Accidents: If you were hit as a pedestrian, including cyclists and motorcyclists in some cases.
- Commercial Vehicle Accidents: Passengers in buses, limousines, or other commercial vehicles may have full tort rights.
- Drunk or Impaired Drivers: If the at-fault driver was intoxicated or under an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) for drugs or alcohol DUI.
- Uninsured Drivers: If the at-fault driver lacks insurance coverage.
- Out-of-State Drivers: If a driver from outside Pennsylvania caused your accident.
These exceptions ensure that limited tort coverage does not completely prevent you from pursuing the damages you deserve.
Can You Sue with Limited Tort in Pennsylvania?
Many drivers believe that limited tort coverage completely restricts their legal options. That’s not true. If one of the above exceptions applies, your insurance policy may be treated as full tort, allowing you to pursue:
- Non-economic damages (pain and suffering)
- Medical expenses not covered by PIP
- Property damage costs
- Lost wages
At The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C., our Schuylkill County personal injury attorneys can evaluate your policy and determine whether limited tort exceptions apply to your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Why Consulting an Experienced Attorney Matters
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by discouraging limited tort policyholders from seeking legal help. By contacting an experienced law firm early, you can:
- Protect your rights and ensure you’re not unfairly limited by your policy.
- Maximize compensation for injuries, lost wages, and property damage.
- Receive guidance on negotiating with insurance adjusters and handling claims efficiently.
With decades of combined experience, our team has a proven track record in helping residents of Pottsville, Schuylkill County, and surrounding areas secure fair settlements after car accidents.
Contact The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania and are unsure about your insurance coverage or legal options, don’t wait. Call us today at (888) 268-0023 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let our team handle the complexities of your case while you focus on recovery.
For more information on PA's limited tort exceptions, call (888) 268-0023 or fill out an online contact form now.
Suggested reading: