When purchasing a car insurance policy in Pennsylvania, you may be concerned about the coverage available for you. What coverage will your insurance company provide when you’re hurt?
If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident, the lawyers at Baratta Law, LLC can help you understand your coverage. Our team can help you understand what your insurance company should cover, and what you can do if they fail to cover your needs.
What Defines a No-Fault State?
State legislatures make the rules governing automobile insurance. A state can either be a no-fault or at-fault liability state when it comes to car accidents. Pennsylvania is a no-fault state.
In no-fault states, all drivers are expected to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This insurance covers the carrier regardless of fault up to a certain amount. That means you don’t have to worry about getting a settlement from the other party’s insurance company. You can just focus on your health and recovery.
In contrast, at-fault states require the at-fault party to pay any costs associated with an accident. In these states, you may need to prove you weren’t at fault for your accident.
Limited Tort Coverage vs. Full Tort Coverage
Limited tort coverage allows individuals with limited tort coverage to take legal action if they are severely injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence but has its drawbacks. Although it’s less expensive, limited tort insurance is more constrictive than full tort insurance in that it often barred claims even when the injured party was not at fault.
While full tort coverage is more expensive, it is comparable to insurance alternatives available in at-fault states. Injured drivers can sue at-fault drivers to the fullest extent of their damages. Full tort coverage eliminates limitations and enables injured drivers to seek compensatory damages for any injuries sustained.
Minimum Car Insurance Coverage Requirement
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation requires minimum insurance coverage for every vehicle. Consequently, if you do not maintain the required insurance on your vehicle, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation may suspend your registration. Among these requirements are the following:
- $5,000 in medical benefits coverage – For treatment of the motorist or their passengers, or both regardless of who was at fault.
- $15,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person – When the insured caused the accident.
- $30,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per accident – When the insured is at fault.
- $5,000 in property damage liability coverage – When the insured is at fault.
Benefits of Engaging a Lawyer
The automobile insurance scheme in Pennsylvania is distinct. Your lawyer will help you navigate the confounding modified no-fault laws and classifications between limited tort and full tort policy coverage. We will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident to determine which losses are reparable.
Let us make things easier for you. Give Baratta Law, LLC a call at 215-914-8132 or fill out the form and someone will get back to you.
