Full Tort vs. Limited Tort in Pennsylvania: Which is Right for You? (A Driver's Definitive Guide)

Navigating Pennsylvania’s unique auto insurance laws can feel like a confusing maze—especially when it comes to full tort vs. limited tort. But understanding your tort election could mean the difference between thousands of dollars in compensation after an accident—or walking away with nothing for your pain and suffering.

This comprehensive guide is designed to help Pennsylvania drivers make an informed decision about their PA car insurance tort options. Whether you're shopping for a new policy or re-evaluating your current coverage, we’ll explain the key differences, benefits, drawbacks, costs, and frequently asked questions.

Let’s break it all down in plain English.

What is Full Tort in PA?

Full tort gives you the unrestricted right to sue for damages after an auto accident in Pennsylvania—even for pain and suffering from minor injuries.

If you're involved in a crash that wasn't your fault, you can recover compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Diminished quality of life

This coverage is especially helpful if you're injured and need long-term care, therapy, or if your injury affects your daily life in any way. Full tort PA policies are generally more expensive, but they offer the most comprehensive legal protection.

What is Limited Tort in PA?

Limited tort is a more affordable option that still covers medical expenses and property damage, but limits your ability to sue for non-economic damages like pain and suffering—unless certain exceptions apply.

Under a limited tort PA policy, you can only recover for pain and suffering if:

• You sustain a “serious injury” (defined under the law as death, serious impairment of bodily function, or permanent disfigurement)
• The at-fault driver is convicted of DUI
• The at-fault driver is uninsured
• You're injured as a pedestrian or cyclist
• You're driving a commercial vehicle or out-of-state vehicle

These are called the limited tort exceptions in Pennsylvania. They’re crucial to understand before you opt for this cheaper coverage.

Full Tort vs. Limited Tort: Explained in Simple Terms

How to Choose Between Full Tort or Limited Tort in Pennsylvania

Here are a few questions to ask yourself before making your tort election in PA:

• Do you drive frequently or commute in high-traffic areas like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Harrisburg? You’re statistically more likely to be in an accident, so full tort may be worth it.
• Can you afford the potential financial hit of not being able to sue for pain and suffering? If not, full tort gives you peace of mind.
• Are you trying to lower your monthly premiums? Limited tort is more affordable upfront, but could cost you more after an accident.
• Do you understand the exceptions to limited tort in Pennsylvania? If you’re not confident you’d qualify for an exception, full tort is safer.

Is Full Tort Worth It in PA?

For many drivers, electing full tort in Pennsylvania is a wise decision. While it may cost more—anywhere from $50 to $200 more per year depending on your driving record and insurer—it gives you legal freedom and peace of mind in case of a crash.

Full tort benefits in PA include:

• Greater leverage in personal injury claims
• More comprehensive legal rights
• No reliance on legal exceptions
• Higher settlement potential

If you have dependents, a long commute, or simply want maximum protection, full tort is often worth the extra cost.

The Cost of Full Tort vs. Limited Tort

So, does full tort cost more in PA? Yes—but not as much as you might think.

According to recent data from the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, choosing full tort increases your premium by about 10–15%, depending on your zip code and coverage limits.

If you’re in Erie, PA, for example, the difference between Erie full tort insurance and limited tort might be about $8–15 per month. In Philadelphia, where accident rates are higher, the difference can be closer to $20–25 per month.

But when compared to the potential tens of thousands of dollars you might lose in a lawsuit with limited tort, it’s a small price to pay.

Changing Your Tort Option in PA

Yes—you can change your tort option in PA at any time, but the process depends on your insurance provider. You'll typically need to:

1. Call your agent or log into your online portal
2. Request a Pennsylvania auto insurance election form
3. Choose between full tort or limited tort
4. Sign and submit the updated paperwork

It’s also a good idea to re-evaluate your tort election whenever you:

• Buy a new car
• Add a teen driver to your policy
• Move to a new zip code
• Experience a major life change (like getting married or starting a family)

PA Minimum Auto Insurance & Tort Options

Under PA motor vehicle financial responsibility law, all drivers must carry the following minimum auto insurance:

• $15,000 per person for bodily injury liability
• $30,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $5,000 for property damage

But your tort option is separate from these limits. Even if you carry Pennsylvania auto insurance minimums full tort, you still retain full legal rights to sue for pain and suffering.

No-Fault vs. Tort in PA: What’s the Difference?

Pennsylvania is considered a "choice no-fault" state, which means drivers can choose between no-fault (limited tort) and full tort systems. Here’s how it breaks down:

• No-fault (limited tort): You use your own insurance for medical bills, regardless of fault, and can’t sue for pain and suffering unless you meet an exception.
• Full tort: You can sue the at-fault driver for all damages, including pain and suffering, no matter what.

Understanding this distinction is key when comparing no fault vs tort PA insurance options.

Understanding PA Limited Tort Laws

The limited tort laws in Pennsylvania can seem restrictive, but they were designed to keep insurance premiums affordable. The problem is—they can also block you from getting fair compensation unless your injuries are severe enough to meet the legal definition of “serious injury.”

That’s why more drivers are choosing to switch from limited tort to full tort in PA—especially those who have had prior accidents or want greater protection.

Should You Switch from Limited Tort to Full Tort in PA?

If you're asking this question, the answer is probably yes.

Here’s why:

• Your future self will thank you in the event of a crash.
• The financial benefit of a pain and suffering settlement can far outweigh the slightly higher premium.
• You’ll avoid the legal gray area of whether your injury is “serious” enough.

Talk to your agent or visit Noble Quote to review your options and make the switch today.

Benefits of Full Tort PA Auto Insurance

• Right to sue for any injury
• Peace of mind
• Higher settlement potential
• No dependency on exceptions
• Stronger legal leverage

Drawbacks of Limited Tort Pennsylvania

• Lower upfront cost, but limited rights
• Harder to recover non-economic damages
• Must meet strict exceptions for serious injuries
• Reduced legal options if you’re the victim of negligence

Noble Quote: Your Partner in Choosing the Right Coverage

Still not sure if full tort or limited tort is the better option for you?

At Noble Quote, we specialize in helping Pennsylvania drivers make smart, informed decisions. We’ll walk you through your options, compare quotes, and make sure your policy works for your life—not just your budget.

Visit our Learning Center for more articles like this one.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, or Harrisburg, understanding full tort vs. limited tort in PA isn’t just smart—it’s essential. The decision you make today can significantly impact your future if you're ever in a crash.

Ready to protect your rights and your wallet? Get a Noble Quote full tort PA policy quote today, and drive with peace of mind.