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One of the most important choices offered is what is called a "limited tort" or "full tort" option. If you
choose the "limited tort" option you will be giving up the right to collect money damages from a
negligent driver who hurts you or a family member in an accident unless you or your family member
suffers what the law calls a serious bodily injury. No one can predict what will or will not be considered
a serious bodily injury. On the other hand, if you choose the "full tort" option you and your family will
not lose this valuable right. You will be able to collect money damages from someone who injures you
or a family member regardless of whether or not the injury is a "serious bodily injury." We recommend
that you do not purchase the "limited tort" option unless you first consult with your attorney.
One of the other significant choices offered to you is whether or not to purchase
uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage is designed to protect you and your family.
Liability coverage, on the other hand, protects the other person — the person that you might negligently
injure. By purchasing uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage you protect yourself and your family
if a negligent driver injures you or your family and doesn't have enough insurance to cover your losses.
It is important to purchase as much underinsured and uninsured coverage as liability coverage.
There are also many other choices which will have to be made by each and every motorist. The
choices include medical benefits, income loss benefits, and funeral benefits. The amounts of coverage
which you choose in each of these categories could become extremely important to you should you be
injured in a motor vehicle accident.
Because the law in this area is so important to everyone, we strongly recommend that you
contact your attorney before renewing or purchasing an automobile insurance policy. If you do not have
an attorney then we urge you to call the Lawyer Referral Service at 459-4411.
If you need an attorney and don't have one, the Lawyer Referral and Information Service can help.
Call Us Monday - Friday from 8:30 AM - Noon and 1:15 PM - 3:00 PM
at (814) 459-4411. |
