Explaining the Difference…
Full tort and limited tort automobile insurance options were instituted by the state of Pennsylvania in an attempt to decrease the number of pain and suffering lawsuits in Pennsylvania courts.
In Pennsylvania, insurance companies offer Full Tort coverage which gives covered individuals the ability to sue in court for all damages, and Limited Tort coverage which “limits” the ability to sue for pain and suffering. Both full tort and limited tort coverage only apply in situations where the driver or passengers have been injured in an accident that is not the driver’s fault.
With the Full Tort option, you will have the right to pursue compensation for the full extent of your losses from an at-fault party. So, not only can your settlement compensate you for your monetary losses, but for your non-monetary losses as well, this includes mental anguish, accident-related emotional trauma, lost enjoyment in life, and pain and suffering.
With Limited Tort you cannot sue for pain & suffering and other non-monetary losses, unless you are seriously injured (death, significant deformity or impairment of body function), or involved in an accident with an out of state driver, or if the other driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Suing for monetary losses, such as loss of income, medical bills, damage to your vehicle, and other out of pocket expenses are not affected by the Tort selection. The Tort selection does not affect your liability coverage. Selecting Full Tort does not mean your vehicle has “Full Coverage”, “Full Coverage” refers to having comprehensive and collision coverage listed on your policy.