Shopping for auto insurance through online rate quotes saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is to compare as many rate quotes as possible in order to have the lowest priced insurance.

Comparing auto insurance rates direct online is challenging if you are a beginner to online rate quotes. But don't let that discourage you because comparing prices is actually very simple. Getting better can be surprisingly simple. Just take time to get quotes online from several insurance companies. This is very easy and can be done by comparing rates here.

What factors determine the rate you pay?

Auto insurance rates for a 2009 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

  • Tickets increase premiums
  • Your credit history
  • Male drivers pay higher rates
  • Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
  • Your vehicle's safety rating
  • Claims drive up premiums
  • Maintaining coverage lowers rates
  • Whether you rent or own your home

A final factor that will help determine is the model year. Newer models have a higher replacement value in comparison to later models so the costs to repair will push premiums up. But new models may have a trim level with safety features including an advanced theft deterrent system, blind-spot warning system, automatic crash notification, and tire pressure monitors so those may lower rates.

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

Collision coverage - Collision coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage caused by collision with an object or car. You have to pay a deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. 2009 collision insurance is rather expensive coverage, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are older. You can also bump up the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive auto coverage - Comprehensive insurance pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The maximum amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible consider removing comprehensive coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This protects you and your vehicle's occupants when the "other guys" either have no liability insurance or not enough. Due to the fact that many drivers only carry the minimum required liability 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.

Medical payments and PIP coverage - Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They are often used to fill the gap from your health insurance plan or if there is no health insurance coverage. PIP coverage is not universally available and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.