Shopping for car insurance by comparing rates online saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you may find lower rates. The key to finding lower rates is to compare rates from as many companies as possible in order to accurately compare all your choices.

Comparing car insurance rates direct online is challenging if you are a beginner to online rate quotes. Don't let that stop you because we're going to show you how. The are a couple different ways to compare rate quotes from car insurance companies in your area. The fastest way to find the cheapest consists of shopping online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by getting a quick quote here.

What factors determine the rate you pay?

Insurance premiums for your 2005 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Your credit history
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• High miles vs. low miles
• Male drivers pay higher rates
• The deductible you choose
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your job
• The amount of protection requested
• Whether you rent or own your home

One important consideration that will help determine your rates is the age of the vehicle. Older cars and trucks have a reduced actual cash value compared to new models so the payout to repair may end up costing you less. But new models have more advanced features including a backup camera, dual-stage airbags, and an advanced theft deterrent system so those may help offset higher rates.

Auto liability insurance

This provides protection from damages or injuries you inflict on other's property or people by causing an accident. Liability insurance covers things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so buy as much as you can afford.

Auto collision coverage

Collision coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage resulting from colliding with an object or car. You have to pay a deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from lower value vehicles. Drivers also have the option to increase the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive insurance

Comprehensive insurance coverage covers damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible then your comprehensive coverage will pay. The maximum amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value consider removing comprehensive coverage.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This provides protection when the "other guys" either have no liability insurance or not enough. Due to the fact that many drivers carry very low liability coverage limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. For this reason, having high UM/UIM coverages is important protection for you and your family.

Med pay and Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for expenses like doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They can be utilized in addition to your health insurance plan or if there is no health insurance coverage. PIP coverage is not universally available and may carry a deductible.