What Does Car Insurance Cover?
Car insurance is very confusing to many people. It may be difficult to determine which plan is right for you. In PA there are many options to choose from, making the decision process even more difficult. Before determining what insurance plan is right for you, it is important to know all of your options. Being informed is always a good idea when it comes to insurance, as you may find yourself needing it one day. Having a good insurance plan protects you and your loved ones if an accident happens. You never know when you will find yourself needing insurance.
Car Insurance Is Required
In Pennsylvania, car insurance is required. You cannot drive a vehicle without at least the minimum amount of coverage. If you are caught operating a vehicle without proper insurance, you may be fined as well as have your license suspended. But more importantly, insurance helps protect you.
What Is Minimum Coverage In Pennsylvania?
The minimum car insurance coverage in Pennsylvania are as follows:
Bodily injury liability coverage – $30,000 per accident, $15,000 per person
Property damage coverage – $5,000
First Party Benefits – $5,000
Minimum Coverage Doesn’t Cover A Lot
Pennsylvania state minimum coverage doesn’t do much to actually cover you or your vehicle in the event of a crash. If you are injured, your First Party Benefits can immediately pay medical bills. That’s it. Pennsylvania state minimum coverage does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage
You may also choose to include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Though it is not legally required in Pennsylvania, we always recommend uninsured/underinsured coverage. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, you can file a claim under your own coverage. Additionally, if the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance coverage you can open a claim for additional coverage under your own policy.
What Are Tort And Limited Tort?
Besides determining the amount of coverage you want your policy to include, you will also choose between limited tort and full tort insurance. The difference in cost is usually small, but there is a distinct difference between what money you can recover depending on what you choose.
Limited Tort
Limited tort insurance is not always the right choice for everyone. The limited tort option allows you to sue the at-fault driver for actual injury expenses related to a car crash. You may seek compensation for physical damages but not any compensation for pain and suffering.
Full Tort
A car crash injury can upend your life. Even a minor injury can require regular treatments, time off from work, travel to doctor appointments, and more. The full tort option allows you to seek compensation for the inconvenience the injury has caused you.
Minor Price Difference
Limited tort policies are going to be slightly cheaper than full tort policies. Some people would rather have a cheaper policy with less coverage. It’s a gamble, and many people find out too late they chose the wrong option.
Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a car accident, talk to a local attorney about your situation. At Kane & Silverman, our attorneys can help you understand your options in a free consultation. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the peace of mind you need.