Limited Tort versus Full Tort is an immediate factor in determine insurance payouts after a car accident. When you initially purchase your auto insurance policy, you will choose between full tort and limited tort coverage. Your choice will affect your ability to receive injury compensation after a car accident.
Full Tort Coverage Explained
Full tort coverage allows you to sue for pain and suffering in addition to medical bills, lost wages, etc. Limited tort coverage means that you forfeit your right to sue for pain and suffering, and you are given a small discount on your monthly premium in return.
Limited Tort Coverage Explained
Limited tort seems appealing to drivers at first, because they pay less in auto insurance each month. But, when you become injured in an accident and need to recover compensation, you may realize that these shorter-term savings were not worth it. Saving a few dollars, or even a few hundred, each year does not equate to the thousands that you could have received in compensation.
Limited Tort Considerations
When you waive your right to recover pain and suffering compensation, you save on your premium. But, you need to assess what you are truly giving up before you sign for limited tort coverage. Car accidents often have lasting and harmful effects on your body. They are more than bruises, lacerations, or even broken bones. There are times when a car accident could affect you for the rest of your life – physically, mentally, and even emotionally.
When you opt for Limited Tort coverage, you waive your right to recover pain and suffering compensation. This compensation is what helps you through your lifelong effects after the accident – including the emotional trauma of the incident.
Full Tort Benefits
Full tort insurance is ALWAYS best when it comes to car insurance. When you compare the small discount and savings with limited tort versus the thousands that you may need to help you recover emotionally and physically from an accident, there is no comparison. Sometimes, accident victims do not realize the full extent of their injuries for weeks, months, or even years – and having the ability to sue for pain and suffering is critical.
What is Pain and Suffering?
Pain and suffering is the anguish a person feels. It is distress that would not have been felt if the accident didn’t occur. This can be both physical and mental or emotional. Every individual is unique and their reaction to a situation can vary greatly. Determining what qualifies for pain and suffering and calculating costs associated can be quite complex. It is best to have a skilled accident lawyer advise you.
Can I Still Sue with Limited Tort?
You can still file a lawsuit for your injuries in a car accident with limited tort coverage, but you will not be able to claim the non-economic damages of pain and suffering. Instead, you will only be able to claim economic damages, such as:
- Bills for medical treatment
- Hospital and doctor fees
- Prescriptions
- Medical devices
- Lost wages
- Physical therapy bills
- Permanent or partial disability (if it impairs your ability to earn a living)
There are EXCEPTIONS to this limitation, however, and only an experienced Philadelphia personal injury attorney can explain those exceptions to you.
Analyze Your Tort Coverage After an Accident Injury
If you have been seriously injured in an auto accident or motorcycle accident in Philadelphia, contact Jeffrey H. Penneys, Esq. today. He can help assess your current insurance policy and see what type of compensation your claim could qualify for. Schedule a free consultation or ask him a question by calling his cell phone at 215-771-0430. You can also ask him a question online via our online contact form.