As a driver, it’s important to know your rights in case you are every involved in an automobile accident. Your right to sue if you are in an accident is determined by the type of insurance you choose. If you are a Pennsylvania motorist, you can choose between two different options that are known as limited tort rights and full tort rights. These different options are priced at different levels, and provide varying allowances for what types of losses you can sue for if you are in an accident.
Here’s a guide to help you understand the difference between limited tort rights and full tort rights in Pennsylvania so you can talk with your trusted insurance broker about which option might be best for you.
Limited Tort Rights
Between the two options, limited tort rights is the least expensive. The reason for that is that it limits what you are able to sue for if you are in an accident. If you choose limited tort rights, then you only have the right to sue the other motorist for monetary and medical losses that they were responsible for causing, and that their insurance did not cover.
This means that you can not sue the other driver for pain, suffering, or any other non-financial losses even if you experienced them.
There are a few exceptions to these limitations. The exceptions include if the accident was caused by a defect in the car or by a repairman or mechanic’s negligence when working on the car, if you were a passenger in a public vehicle like a train, bus, or taxi, or if the at-fault driver was driving under the influence, was uninsured, or meant to cause harm. If you meet the criteria for any of these exceptions, you can sue for financial and medical losses as well as pain and suffering even if you have limited tort rights in PA.
When you choose an auto insurance policy with full tort rights, you will pay more for it. However, if you are involved in an accident, you would then have the right to sue the other driver not only for medical and monetary losses, but also for pain and suffering.
Are you wondering which option is right for you? Contact Superior Insurance and Auto Tags today! You’ll talk with an insurance broker who will learn about your needs and present you with a range of options tailored to your circumstances and your budget. With personalized help, you can make an informed decision between limited tort rights or full tort rights for your auto insurance policy.
