PA car insurance is mandatory for all registered vehicles in the state. If stopped, and the driver cannot produce proof of insurance, a variety of fines can be imposed, along with having the vehicle impounded. If the driver knowingly has a lapse in insurance, he could have his license suspended for up to three months and/or have his vehicle impounded. Here is some basic information on PA auto insurance.
Pennsylvania provides for two types of coverage: full torte and limited torte. Full torte coverage gives consumers the right to sue for damages above and beyond what the at fault driver is covered for in the event of an accident. Many people already have this type of coverage without knowing it; it is the default insurance for those who are not forced into purchasing no fault policies where that right does not exist.
The second type of insurance, limited torte, is similar but far less expensive. The owner can still sue the at fault driver but can only sue for unpaid medical bills and various out of pocket expenses, but that’s all. He can’t sue for things like pain and suffering. If monthly premiums and budgeting are issues, this may be a viable option to consider.
Minimum coverages are: $15, 000/$30, 000 for bodily injury ($15, 000 per person per accident and $30, 000 in total for all injuries sustained by everyone in one accident). There is also a $5, 000 minimum for property damage that occurs during an accident.
Pennsylvania provides a 5% discount for drivers 55 and over who take state sponsored driving courses which are designed to test and improve driving skills. All insurance companies are required to offer this discount. Insurance companies must also insure drivers who are difficult to insure. This is done under what is called an Assigned Risk Plan where your rate will depend on exactly why you are difficult to insure.
For newcomers to Pennsylvania, it is a good idea to sit down with an auto insurance sales rep in order to discuss the major differences between the full and limited torte coverage. Once you have a complete understanding of each option then you should get quotes from different companies. Premiums can vary widely and insurance companies that offer various bundle pricing (you would have all your insurance with them from life insurance to car insurance, etc.) can offer some pretty steep discounts when it comes to what you might have to pay for your auto insurance policy.
By: Felix Fassbinder