Be Careful When Choosing Limited Tort Coverage

Pennsylvania residents are able to choose between full tort and limited tort coverage when signing up for an auto policy. Many policy holders pick limited tort coverage because it keeps monthly payments down, but this choice can end up “limiting” your right to file a claim should you become injured in a car accident.

Policy holders who opt for limited tort – along with anyone who qualifies under the insurance policy – can bring about claims to recover losses for medical expenses, lost wages and property damage. However, they are unable to sue for pain and suffering. Claimants with limited tort can only attempt to recover damages for pain and suffering if they suffered a “serious injury” (defined as “death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement”), which can be extremely difficult to prove.

It may seem worth the lower payments to sign up for limited tort coverage, but it is important to remember that car accidents can have a lasting impact on you and your family’s physical, emotional, mental and financial well-being.

Leonard Sciolla attorneys have extensive experience representing people injured in car accidents. Contact Christopher Fleming and Marisa Ciarrocki in our Philadelphia office at (215) 567-1530, or Greg Sciolla in our New Jersey office at (856) 273-6679.

Published July 1, 2016