Full Coverage Insurance vs. Full Tort

Simply put, no.

• Full coverage insurance generally means that you’re getting your vehicle insured with collision and comprehensive liability coverage
• Full tort affords you the right to sue for pain and suffering and other compensation if you ever find yourself in an accident

The term “full coverage” can be a bit of a marketing term as what it really refers to is the “minimum coverage” required by law to operate a vehicle. If you are ever found liable in a car accident, “full coverage” will pay the costs of the other person’s damages, but it may not cover you entirely if the roles are reversed.

While a full coverage policy may offer some perks and benefits, it may not fully protect your legal rights to pursue just compensation if you are ever severely injured in a car accident.

All drivers in the state of Pennsylvania are required to carry Medical Benefits (no-fault insurance) and Liability Car Insurance. The following minimums apply to have full coverage insurance:

• Bodily Injury Liability Cost: $15,000 per person/$30,000 per accident
• Medical Benefits Cost: $5,000
• Property Damage Cost: $5,000 per accident

In the state of Pennsylvania, you have the option to choose between full tort and limited tort insurance policies (Read: Should I choose Full Tort or Limited Tort insurance?) and some insurance companies will market “Full Coverage” to attract potential clients.

At the end of the day, regardless of your provider, you need to ask whether your insurance policy provides full tort or limited tort coverage. While we can’t tell you how to spend your money, it should be noted that full tort coverage will give you the best options to receive fair compensation if you are ever injured in an auto accident where the other party is at fault.