What Is Full Tort in Pennsylvania?

Part of the PhillyLegalConnect Quick Answer Series

Quick Answer

Full Tort in Pennsylvania generally preserves your right to seek compensation for pain and suffering and other legally recoverable damages if another driver’s negligence causes your injuries. Unlike Limited Tort, Full Tort does not impose the same general restrictions on recovering non-economic damages. Every accident is different, however, and your legal rights will always depend on the specific facts of your case.

Key Takeaways

• Full Tort generally preserves your legal rights after a Pennsylvania car accident.
• Drivers with Full Tort are generally not subject to the same pain and suffering restrictions that apply to Limited Tort.
• Full Tort usually costs more than Limited Tort, but many drivers choose it for the additional legal protection.
• Understanding the difference before an accident can help you make more informed insurance decisions.

Understanding Full Tort

When purchasing automobile insurance in Pennsylvania, drivers are generally asked to choose between Limited Tort and Full Tort coverage.

While both options provide important insurance protections, the primary difference concerns your ability to recover compensation for pain and suffering if another driver’s negligence causes your injuries.

Many drivers select Full Tort because it preserves broader legal rights if they are seriously or even moderately injured in an accident. Others choose Limited Tort because it typically costs less. Although Full Tort generally costs somewhat more than Limited Tort, many Pennsylvania drivers believe the additional legal protection is worth the increased premium.

Selecting the option that best fits your needs depends on your circumstances, budget, and comfort level with the trade-offs between premium costs and available legal protections.

Learn More

To better understand Pennsylvania’s automobile insurance system, explore these related guides:

• Can I Sue With Limited Tort in Pennsylvania?
• Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Pennsylvania Car Accident?
• Who Pays for My Lost Wages?
• Pennsylvania Injury Playbook

What To Do Next

If you’re unsure whether you selected Full Tort or Limited Tort:

• Review your automobile insurance declarations page.
• Ask your insurance company to explain your current coverage.
• Compare the benefits and costs before renewing your policy.
• Learn how Pennsylvania’s insurance laws may affect your rights after an accident.

Review your coverage before your next policy renewal so you understand your options before an accident occurs.