Understanding Pennsylvania Car Insurance Laws

Answer 1

Drivers with currently registered vehicles in the state of Pennsylvania must carry liability insurance according to Pennsylvania car insurance laws. Car insurance protects other motorists driving on Pennsylvania roads by covering property damage or injuries that you have caused. Pennsylvania car insurance laws state that drivers can be penalized if they fail to maintain adequate liability insurance.

Mandatory Coverage Required in Pennsylvania

Automotive insurance is mandatory for drivers in Pennsylvania. The minimum amount of coverage required by state law is $15,000 per individual, $30,000 per incident involving more than one person and $5,000 for property damage. Drivers desiring to protect their personal assets may purchase additional coverage. If you are involved in an accident that is considered your fault and the value of the other driver's claims exceed your policy coverage, the driver has the right to take action against you concerning the amount that was not covered by your insurance policy.

Penalties for Not Maintaining Vehicle Insurance in Pennsylvania

Drivers who fail to comply with Pennsylvania car insurance laws may face severe penalties. A driver whose insurance coverage has expired for longer than one month will receive a vehicle registration suspension for 90 days. A driver whose insurance coverage has been expired for less than one month must confirm with PennDOT that the car was not driven while the insurance was expired. Individuals driving vehicles without the proper insurance coverage in Pennsylvania will also have their driver's license suspended for 90 days. PennDOT requires that drivers turn in their vehicle registration plate, card, sticker and driver's license while serving the suspension. Drivers can reinstate their vehicle registration and driver's license by paying a $50 reinstatement fee and submitting proof of insurance.

Insurance Company Requirements

Pennsylvania car insurance laws allow insurance companies to use consumers' personal credit histories to determine insurance coverage and rates. Insurance companies are required to notify PennDOT when a Pennsylvania driver's insurance policy is cancelled. State law does not require insurance companies to notify PennDot of insurance policy reinstatement. That is the responsibility of the driver.