Full Tort vs. Limited Tort in Pennsylvania: What Drivers Need to Know in 2025
Choosing the Right Coverage Matters
If you live in Pennsylvania, you know car insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying or renewing a policy is whether to select Full Tort or Limited Tort coverage.
This choice doesn’t just affect your monthly premium, it can also determine your legal rights after an accident. Unfortunately, many drivers don’t fully understand the difference until it’s too late.
In this article, we’ll break down Full Tort vs. Limited Tort coverage so you can make the best decision for your budget and peace of mind.
What Is Tort Coverage?
Tort coverage relates to your right to sue for pain and suffering after a car accident. In Pennsylvania, you must choose one of two options:
Full Tort:
Higher premiums
Full legal rights to sue for pain and suffering, no matter the severity of the injury
Ideal for drivers who want maximum legal protection after an accident
Limited Court:
Lower premiums (typically 12–15% cheaper)
Restricted rights to sue for pain and suffering unless the injury is legally considered “serious”
A budget-friendly option for drivers comfortable with some limitations on legal claims
What Counts as a “Serious Injury”?
Under Pennsylvania law, a serious injury typically includes:
Death
Permanent disfigurement
Serious impairment of a body function
If your injury doesn’t meet this standard, Limited Tort coverage may prevent you from seeking pain and suffering compensation, even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
Cost vs. Coverage: How to Decide
Choose Full Tort if:
You want complete legal rights after any accident, even for minor injuries. Full Tort provides peace of mind knowing you can pursue compensation for pain and suffering no matter what.
Choose Limited Tort if:
You want to save money on premiums and are comfortable with limited legal options for pain and suffering claims. This option appeals to cost-conscious drivers who prioritize lower monthly payments.
Many drivers choose Limited Tort for the cost savings, but it can be a decision they regret if they experience an accident with injuries that don’t qualify as “serious.”
Real-Life Example
Imagine you’re in a car accident and suffer whiplash that keeps you out of work for several weeks:
With Full Tort: You can sue for both medical expenses and pain and suffering.
With Limited Tort: You may only be able to recover your medical costs unless the injury is legally defined as “serious.”
This example shows why understanding your tort choice before an accident happens is so important.
How Ebensburg Insurance Can Help
At Ebensburg Insurance, we guide Pennsylvania drivers through every step of selecting the right coverage. Our team will help you:
Compare the cost difference between Full Tort and Limited Tort
Understand your legal rights under each option
Choose coverage that fits your budget and lifestyle
We take the confusion out of insurance so you can feel confident about your policy.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Full Tort vs. Limited Tort coverage, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on how much legal protection you want, how much you’re willing to pay for it, and your comfort level with risk.
The good news? You don’t have to make this decision alone.
Not sure which tort option is right for you? Contact Ebensburg Insurance today for a free, no-obligation policy review. We’ll help you understand your coverage options and find the best protection for your needs.
Serving Ebensburg, Bellwood, Northern Cambria, Carrolltown, and surrounding areas.
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