Pennsylvania is known for many things. It is home to the Liberty Bell and cheese steak, but it is also known for its Tort state status in the event that an accident occurs. Although this historical fact may not be as interesting as the others, it is necessary to know when driving through the state as a visitor or a resident. You must understand the auto insurance policies of the State of Independence. This includes how they affect renters and what Pennsylvania’s Tort status means for drivers.
What are Pennsylvania’s mandatory auto insurance laws?
Pennsylvania mandates auto insurance. The minimum liability coverage amounts for drivers include $15,000 bodily injuries per person, $30,000 bodily Injury per accident, $5,000 property damages liability coverage and $5,000 personal injury coverage. Drivers must also have proof insurance on them at all times.
Non-compliance with insurance laws can have severe consequences. You could be subject to severe penalties if you are stopped by police for driving while you don’t have insurance. There is a $300 minimum penalty. You will also have to pay restoration fees to your vehicle’s registration, the restoration fees for your driver’s licence, and fees to remove your vehicle from impoundment. Legally, your vehicle registration will be suspended for three months and your driver’s licence suspended for three months. Until you have resolved the problem, you will not be allowed to drive your vehicle. It is best to be cautious and follow the mandatory insurance laws of Pennsylvania.
What do these laws mean for rental cars?
Even if you’re “just visiting”, you still need to adhere to Pennsylvania’s mandatory insurance laws. Although most credit cards and/or Pennsylvania auto insurance companies have policies that include car rentals, it’s a good idea for you to verify this policy with your credit card or insurance company. This is especially important if you’re from another state. You may need to buy insurance with the rental company for $7 to $14 per day.
Pennsylvania is known as a “Tort State,” but what does this mean for me?
The Tort state’s auto accident law is based on a simple principle: Every accident must be someone’s fault. The accident is considered “at fault” if the person responsible is found to have caused it. Auto insurance companies recommend that drivers have higher insurance limits than the minimums required by law. If they are found to be “at fault,” they may end up having to pay a lot more.
Pennsylvania is different from other Tort states in that drivers have the option to choose between two tort options to determine their right to receive compensation in an accident. You can choose from Full Tort or Limited Tort. Full Tort is the driver’s choice. This gives them unlimited financial compensation for any injuries sustained by other drivers.
This seems appropriate that it should be the law of Pennsylvania, the State of Independence. Remember that your independence is limited to the borders of your neighbor. So, drive carefully, even if it’s urgent to see the Liberty Bell and get your cheese steak.