Limited Tort vs. Full Tort
What You Need to Know Before an Accident Happens
If you live in Pennsylvania and own a vehicle, you’ve likely had to choose between limited tort and full tort auto insurance coverage. It may have seemed like a small checkbox decision at the time, but if you’re ever injured in an accident, that choice could have a major impact on your legal rights and financial recovery.
We have handled hundreds of limited and full tort cases, and we fight aggressively to secure every dollar our clients deserve, regardless of the coverage they have.
Let’s break down what these options mean and why full tort is always the better choice.
What Is Full Tort Coverage?
Full tort coverage gives you the unrestricted right to sue the at-fault driver for both economic and non-economic damages after a car accident. Economic damages are: medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages include: pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
With full tort, you retain your right to recover for your injuries, even for minor or moderate injuries.
What Is Limited Tort Coverage?
Limited tort is less expensive initially, but it restricts your ability to seek damages for pain and suffering unless you qualify for certain exceptions.
You can still recover economic damages (like medical bills and lost income), but you can’t claim compensation for non-economic damages unless your injuries are considered “serious” under Pennsylvania law.
There are also exceptions to limited tort, such as: the other driver is not a Pennsylvania driver, the other driver was convicted of drunk driving, you were hit by a car while you were a pedestrian, and others. If an exception applies, you are considered full tort and able to recover for non-economic damages without proving serious injury.
That often becomes a battle with insurance companies, who will argue your injuries don’t qualify.
Already Have Limited Tort? Don’t Panic.
We hear this all the time: “I have limited tort… does that mean I can’t sue?”
Not necessarily.
You can still sue, insurance companies battle to try to diminish your ability to recover, especially when you have limited tort. It is important to have an attorney who knows all the ins and outs of limited tort.
We know how to fight for limited tort clients. Our team has successfully challenged denials and won cases where others thought it couldn’t be done. Don’t let the insurance company decide what you deserve—we’ll review your case for free and give you straight answers.
I tell my friends and family members to select full tort. Although it may be a bit more expensive, it will be more beneficial if you are ever in an accident. You will automatically be able to fight for just compensation, without having to establish a “serious injury” under Pennsylvania law. If you have limited tort and were in an accident, do not be discouraged. We have extensive experience advocating for clients and getting them the compensation they deserve when they are full tort and when they are limited tort.
** None of the above is to be considered as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please call our office, I am happy to discuss your legal matter with you.
