Car Accident Compensation in Pennsylvania | Guide 2026

Pennsylvania has a unique "choice" system: when you buy insurance, you pick full tort or limited tort. This directly affects what you can claim. Modified comparative negligence with 51% bar (42 Pa.C.S. § 7102).

The Tort Choice System

Full tort: You can sue for pain and suffering without restrictions. Slightly higher premiums.
Limited tort: You can only sue for pain and suffering if injury is "serious." Lower premiums but limited rights.

Check your policy. If you chose limited tort and your injury isn't serious, your compensation may be significantly reduced.

Statute of Limitations

Personal injury: 2 years (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524)
Property damage: 2 years
Wrongful death: 2 years

Average Settlements

Injury Type	Range
Soft tissue	$12,000 – $40,000
Moderate	$40,000 – $150,000
Serious	$150,000 – $400,000
Catastrophic	$400,000 – $5,000,000+

Insurance: 15/30/5

$15,000/$30,000 bodily injury
$5,000 property damage
$5,000 medical PIP required

Updated May 2026. Sources: 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524, § 7102; Pennsylvania Bar Association.

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