What is the difference between limited and full tort? And, which one is right for me?
Do not confuse full tort with full coverage. Full coverage pays for damages for your car no matter whose fault the accident is, while full tort allows you to sue for non-economic damages if you are not-at-fault in a car accident and not seriously injured. Full tort is the better option to have versus limited tort, but electing for the full tort option will typically cost you 20% to 25% more in premium on your car insurance.
Limited tort was created to save customers on their car insurance by reducing the number of frivolous lawsuits, only allowing people to sue for non-economic losses, e.g. pain and suffering, if they are seriously injured in a car accident.
For more information on tort consult your local insurance agent or lawyer. Below is the definition provided by the Commonwealth of PA
"Full tort alternative: Each person who is bound by the full tort election remains eligible to seek compensation for noneconomic loss claimed and economic loss sustained in a motor vehicle accident as the consequence of the fault of another person pursuant to applicable tort law.
Limited tort alternative: Each person who elects the limited tort alternative remains eligible to seek compensation for economic loss sustained in a motor vehicle accident as the consequence of the fault of another person pursuant to applicable tort law. Unless the injury sustained is a serious injury, each person who is bound by the limited tort election shall be precluded from maintaining an action for any noneconomic loss…"