Pennsylvania Auto Coverage Requirements
This chapter covers the coverage rules a Pennsylvania producer must know to place personal auto correctly: the compulsory liability limits, the required first-party medical benefit, and Pennsylvania's distinctive full-tort/limited-tort choice.
Compulsory Limits and Required Medical Benefit
Pennsylvania's Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law requires every registered vehicle to carry liability insurance at the state minimum limits. Under 75 Pa.C.S. Section 1702, the minimum limits are $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury and $5,000 per accident for property damage (15/30/5). Pennsylvania also requires a first-party medical benefit of at least $5,000 under 75 Pa.C.S. Section 1711 (both confirmed via codes.findlaw.com). Because statutory minimums can change, verify the current figures with the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.
The Full-Tort / Limited-Tort Choice
Pennsylvania is a 'choice' no-fault state, a favorite exam topic. When buying auto coverage, the named insured must choose between the full-tort option and the limited-tort option. A full-tort insured keeps the unrestricted right to sue an at-fault driver for both economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and noneconomic damages (pain and suffering). A limited-tort insured pays a lower premium but generally may recover only economic damages and is barred from suing for pain and suffering except in cases of serious injury or other statutory exceptions. Confirm the current framework with the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.