What kind of insurance is required for all drivers in Erie?
Erie, PA – While laws can vary by state, some kind of auto insurance is always required to operate a vehicle legally. Pennsylvania has mandatory insurance laws that are meant to protect victims of property damage and bodily injuries by making compensation available through an insurance claim. People who plan on driving in the state can review these requirements with their insurance provider, and legal advice is recommended after any motor vehicle crash.
Pennsylvania auto insurance laws
There are few different things that are integrated into all auto insurance policies for them to comply with state law. There must be liability cover for up to $15,000 worth of bodily injury per person, $30,000 of bodily injury costs per accident, and up to $5,000 in coverage for property damage. Policies in the state also need to have up to $5,000 worth of first party medical benefits available. This benefit will cover losses to the insured and any passengers in their vehicle for things like medical care and recovery expenses after an injury.
Pennsylvania also has no fault insurance laws. This means that insurance companies will pay out claims regardless of whether the driver is considered at fault or not.
Drivers who do not have insurance while they are on the roads
Law enforcement in the state is authorized to issue citations and penalties for driving without the proper coverage and credentials to prove that a vehicle is insured. Penalties can include fines, suspension of the car’s registration and the driver’s license for up to three months, and additional costs to reinstate a suspended license and car registration.
What happens if an insurance policy is insufficient to cover losses?
Some accidents are so severe that several thousand dollars worth of coverage does not pay for all of the property damage and medical treatment required. In these cases, it is possible that the driver responsible will face a negligence lawsuit and have to pay for additional damages out of their own money. It is possible that a victim who requires long term medical care and cannot work will argue for hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars worth of damages from the defendant.
Buying additional coverage
Many insurance companies will try to sell additional forms of coverage with each policy, even if these are not required by law. Coverage for the driver’s own vehicle collision damage, uninsured motorist protection, and comprehensive coverage are some of the most common options.
Pittsburgh accident attorneys
Frischmann and Rizza is an experienced firm that focuses on accident cases in Pittsburgh and nearby parts of Pennsylvania. They are able to speak with anyone who has been injured and needs assistance with a lawsuit and compensation.
Firm contact info:
7300 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15208
412-291-3977
frlawpa.com
