Drivers in Pennsylvania face distinct road conditions and risks. Understanding these challenges highlights the value of robust coverage. Key considerations include:  

• Varied Weather Conditions: Pennsylvania experiences a full range of seasons, from heavy winter snowstorms to summer downpours, each creating hazardous driving conditions.
• Highways and Urban Traffic: From the winding roads of the Poconos to congested streets in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, diverse driving environments increase the risks of accidents.
• State-Required Minimums: Pennsylvania mandates insurance coverage, but minimum requirements often fall short of providing sufficient protection.

Pennsylvania is a “no-fault” state, meaning your auto insurance policy primarily covers your medical expenses after an accident, regardless of fault. The state’s minimum required coverage includes:  

• First Party Benefits: A minimum of $5,000, covering medical expenses, lost wages from work, funeral expenses, and other medical benefits because of an accident for you and others on your policy.
  • Pennsylvania drivers will need to select amounts for each option and sign off on those amounts with their agent. If not, they can elect Combination First Party Benefits limits.
• Bodily Injury Liability: Coverage for others’ medical costs when you’re at fault. Minimum limits are $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.
• Property Damage Liability: Coverage for others’ vehicles or property when you’re at fault. Minimum requirement of $5,000 per accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured (UM/UIM) Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage: Coverage for your injuries if the other party doesn't have sufficient insurance.
  • Stacked UM/UIM: You are able to stack your UM/UIM coverage in Pennsylvania. This means that the limit of coverage is multiplied by the number of vehicles you have on your policy.
  • While not required in Pennsylvania, this coverage is added to standard policies and must be rejected in writing with your agent if you wish to remove it.
• Full or Limited Tort: Required by Pennsylvania, tort insurance allows drivers to sue for non-monetary damages (commonly referred to as pain and suffering).
  • Full: Allows drivers to sue for non-monetary damages no matter what type of injuries they sustain.
  • Limited: Like full but only applies to injuries that are considered “serious.” Definitions vary, but typically include dismemberment, disfigurement, and death amongst others.

A driver still needs to be found at fault for accidents so they can be held accountable for the other party’s vehicle damage. These minimum requirements are mandatory but having a policy that only meets these requirements leaves your vehicle unprotected.  

To enhance your peace of mind and financial protection, consider adding these optional coverages to your policy:  

• Collision Coverage: Helps pay for damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident based on your deductible.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Helps pay for non-collision damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident based on your deductible.
• Roadside Assistance: Helps pay for the cost of towing your vehicle if it cannot be driven due to an accident or breakdown.
• Rental Car Reimbursement: Helps pay for the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered accident.
• Increase Liability Limits: Some drivers see the benefit of increasing their liability limits to avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses if they’re found to be at fault.

This isn’t a full list of coverage options, and some drivers may need more specific coverage. At Goosehead, we work with our clients to create customized coverage that works for their needs and budgets. 

On average, Pennsylvania drivers pay around $500 a year for the legal minimum coverage. Drivers with policies that have more coverage tend to pay an average of $2,500 a year. 

Of course, what you pay will vary on what you select on your coverage, the carrier you choose, and these other factors:

• Driving History: Accidents and violations increase premiums, while a clean record offers savings opportunities.
• Location: Rural areas tend to have lower premiums than urban hubs like Philadelphia, where risks are higher due to traffic density and theft rates.
• Vehicle Type: Newer and luxury vehicles may cost more to insure.
• Mileage: High annual mileage raises costs, while low-mileage drivers may qualify for discounts.

At Goosehead Insurance, we’re committed to finding you affordable coverage without compromising on quality. Consider these strategies to save on your policy:  

• Bundle Policies: Combine homeor renters with auto insurance Pennsylvania drivers can trust for discounts.
• Drive Safely: Maintaining a clean driving record can reduce premiums over time.
• Ask About Discounts: Check for savings like multi-vehicle discounts or incentives for vehicles with advanced safety features.
• Shop Around: Goosehead works with top-rated providers to compare rates and find the best value for your needs.

Goosehead Insurance is dedicated to making the car insurance process seamless for you. Here’s why people choose us for their auto insurance Pennsylvania coverage needs:  

• Access to Leading Carriers: We compare quotes from top insurers to get you the best combination of price and coverage.
• Customized Coverage: Policies designed around your unique driving habits, preferences, and budget.
• State-Specific Expertise: Our agents understand the particular risks and requirements Pennsylvania drivers face.
• Ongoing Support: From answering questions to assisting with claims, we’re here every step of the way.