Is Pennsylvania a no-fault accident state?

No-fault accident states, like Pennsylvania, require some form of no-fault automobile insurance coverage. In a no-fault state, drivers must file a claim with their insurance provider if they are involved in a car accident. Drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, also known as no-fault insurance. The PIP coverage must include the following minimum amounts: $5,000 for property damage, $15,000 for injury to one person in one accident, $30,000 for two or more people in one accident, and $5,000 for medical benefits. The choice portion of the choice no-fault insurance refers to drivers having the option of coverage that is limited tort insurance or full tort insurance.

Limited tort coverage provides that each person who elects limited tort can seek compensation for economic loss but not noneconomic loss from a car accident. However, the limited tort option becomes a full tort option if the at-fault person:

  • Is convicted or accepts rehab for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance
  • Operates an automobile registered in another state
  • Intends to injure themselves or another person
  • Does not maintain state-required auto insurance

Under the full tort option, the insured party can receive compensation for their economic loss and retain the right to sue the at-fault driver for noneconomic losses, such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.

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