Since automobile accidents occur so frequently, they are the most common type of personal injury case in our court system. Almost half of all car accidents result in some type of injury, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Often these turn out to be serious injuries that render drivers eligible for some amount of compensation. Because of frequency of these court cases, it is important that you take legal steps as soon as possible. You don't want to wait for compensation for medical expenses, recovery of lost wages, compensation for damage to your car or property, a replacement vehicle, damages for pain and suffering, or punitive damages.



Many of us live from month to month, with income barely exceeding expenses. As a result, we might make decisions that satisfy short-term interests, but perhaps these decisions do not satisfy long-term needs. We choose a car insurance policy that costs less, but we take a large risk by doing so. The lower monthly cost of an insurance policy will only be ideal if nothing ever happens. But how can we be sure nothing will ever happen?

Auto accidents can be extremely expensive, even if the accident was not your fault. It is imperative that you understand your insurance and make sure you make the right decisions concerning your coverage. Keep in mind that you can change your insurance options at any time. All drivers must choose between Limited Tort and Full Tort insurance policies, and understanding the difference between them isn't as complicated as it first appears.

Limited Tort

Though limited tort is a more economical decision for your monthly budget, there are certain benefits that you will be ineligible for, should you choose it. You will not be able to receive compensation for pain and suffering. Also, you will be liable for the out of pocket expenses you incur, which could add up to thousands of dollars.

Full Tort

Full Tort will be more expensive to you on a monthly basis, but will help you enormously after a car accident. You and other drivers listed on the policy will be covered. This coverage will enable you to receive compensation for pain and suffering if the accident is the other driver's fault.

Under Pennsylvania's Law of Comparative Negligence, even if you are partially at fault, you may be entitled to damages. When both parties are negligent in some way, one person may be more at fault than another. For example, if one driver was speeding and the other driver did not have his or her headlights on, the person speeding may be determined to be 60% at fault. Therefore, if that driver was entitled to recover $10,000, his recovery is reduced to $4,000 because he is responsible for the 60% of the accident.

Negligence is the most common reason for accidents. Someone wasn't paying attention and made a mistake while driving that could have been prevented. Negligence resulting in personal injury can be compensated even when the other driver is uninsured or under-insured.

Uninsured or Under-insured Drivers

Many people cannot afford car insurance or cannot afford enough insurance to cover an accident. Uninsured motorist coverage will allow you to be covered when you have an accident with someone who does not have insurance, but is legally responsible for your injuries nonetheless. This type of coverage also applies to hit and run situations. An underinsured motorist policy will allow you to be covered when you have an accident with someone who has liability insurance with limits that are lower than your underinsured motorist coverage limits. In cases of accidents involving these complicated types of insurance, it is best to have an experienced personal injury law firm working with you to protect your legal rights.

In order to receive compensation for accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers, first it must be determined that the other person was at fault and that you sustained significant personal injury in the accident. You must also know how the other person's at-fault policy limits compare with the limits of your own policy. Your insurance company will be entitled to a credit for any recovery assistance they provide you.

Insurance policies can be complicated when you have an accident with someone who is uninsured or underinsured. Insurance policies can be complicated when you are the person who is uninsured or underinsured. An experienced lawyer can help you receive the compensation to which you are entitled after an accident. Do not try to settle these matters on your own. Allow an experienced law firm to help you get the benefits you deserve from your insurance.