Limited Tort vs Full Tort in Pennsylvania – What’s the Difference?

Choosing between limited tort vs full tort in PA is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying car insurance in Pennsylvania. The option you choose affects your right to sue, how much compensation you can recover after an accident, and how much you pay for coverage.


At CheapCarInsurancePA.com, we help Pennsylvania drivers understand the difference between limited tort and full tort auto insurance—and choose the option that fits their budget and risk level.


What Is Limited Tort in Pennsylvania?

Limited tort is the lower-cost option for auto insurance in PA. It limits your ability to sue for pain and suffering after an accident.

With limited tort:

  • You can recover medical bills and lost wages
  • You cannot sue for pain and suffering unless you suffer a serious injury
  • You usually pay less for insurance

What Counts as a “Serious Injury”?

Pennsylvania defines serious injury as one that results in:

  • Death
  • Serious impairment of body function
  • Permanent disfigurement

Minor injuries typically do not qualify.


What Is Full Tort in Pennsylvania?

Full tort gives you the full legal right to sue an at-fault driver for all damages—including pain and suffering—regardless of injury severity.

With full tort:

  • You keep your right to sue
  • You can seek compensation for pain and suffering
  • You pay higher premiums than limited tort

Full tort offers maximum legal protection.


How Much More Does Full Tort Cost in PA?

The cost difference varies by insurer and driver profile, but on average:

💡 Full tort costs 10–25% more than limited tort
💡 Many drivers pay just a few dollars more per month for full tort

We help you compare quotes with both options side by side so you can decide if the extra protection is worth it.


Exceptions to Limited Tort in Pennsylvania

Even with limited tort, you may still be able to sue for pain and suffering if:

  • The at-fault driver was uninsured
  • The at-fault driver was underinsured
  • The driver was convicted of DUI
  • The driver intentionally caused harm
  • You’re a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a car

These exceptions are often misunderstood—and insurers don’t always explain them clearly.


Limited Tort, Full Tort & UM/UIM Coverage in PA

Your tort option works closely with:

  • Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage
  • Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage

💡 Full tort + UM/UIM offers the strongest protection
💡 Limited tort can still work well with UM/UIM, but legal recovery may be limited

Choosing the right combination matters more than most drivers realize.


Which Is Better: Limited Tort or Full Tort in PA?

Choose limited tort if:

  • You want the lowest possible premium
  • You’re comfortable with legal limitations
  • You’re a low-risk or low-mileage driver

Choose full tort if:

  • You want maximum legal rights
  • You want protection from non-serious injuries
  • You don’t want to rely on injury thresholds
  • You want peace of mind after an accident

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—only what fits your situation.


Why Compare Tort Options With CheapCarInsurancePA.com?

✔ Pennsylvania insurance specialists
✔ Clear tort explanations—no fine print
✔ Side-by-side limited vs full tort quotes
✔ Works with liability-only & full coverage policies
✔ Fast, free comparisons

We help you choose coverage that protects you—not just your wallet.


Get a Pennsylvania Auto Insurance Quote – Limited & Full Tort Compared

Not sure which tort option is right for you?

Compare limited tort vs full tort auto insurance quotes in PA today and see the real price difference—before you decide.

👉 Free, no-obligation quotes
👉 Tort options explained clearly
👉 Same-day coverage available