Just like in every other state across the country, drivers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have to purchase a certain type and amount of insurance in order to remain legal on the roadway. Under current Pennsylvania law, drivers are required to carry:
Bodily injury liability coverage or $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident
Property damage liability coverage or $5,000
$5,000 medical benefits coverage
It is important to point out that Pennsylvania’s car insurance laws are rather confusing. Pennsylvania is a “choice no-fault” state when it comes to insurance. In a no-fault situation, individuals turn to their own insurance coverage regardless of who causes the incident. There are some exceptions to this, particularly for cases where catastrophic injuries occurred. However, individuals in Pennsylvania have the choice to opt-out of the no-fault insurance system and opt into the full tort system that most people are familiar with.
Individuals who opt into the full tort system will handle a car accident claim like most other states. In other words, the driver who caused the incident will pay compensation to those who sustain injuries or property damage.
When we examine these minimums, we can see that they are rather low. An accident does not have to be very severe in order for these minimums to be met, and this can leave individuals financially liable for the remainder of a person’s medical bills and property damage expenses. We strongly encourage individuals to examine their needs when it comes to auto insurance and purchase the types and minimums of insurance that will keep them financially secure should an accident occur.
Additionally, please notice that individuals are not required by law to purchase comprehensive or collision coverage, though any person who owes money on their vehicle will likely be required to purchase this type of insurance by the leaseholder.